A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

172

The Oxygen Group

Selenium

Se

34

Forms

Uses

Selenium is named after Selene, the Greek

goddess of the Moon. This element is a

semi-metal and so has the properties of both

metals and non-metals. Selenium has two main

pure forms: grey selenium, which is a hard

substance, and red selenium, which is a soft

powder. The most common use of selenium

is as an ingredient that provides colour in

glass and ceramics. Selenium is sensitive

to light, so it is used in solar cells that convert

sunlight into electricity. It is also utilized in

photocopy machines.

This form of

the element has

a metallic sheen

on its surface.

A selenium compound in

this shampoo treats dandruff.

These nuts

are the richest

food source

of selenium.

These dark areas

contain selenium

and copper.

This bright colour

comes from the red

selenium in the glaze.

Brazil (^) n
uts
Anti-dandruff shampoo
This calculator is powered
by a solar cell made of
selenium and nickel.
Calculator
34 34 45
State: Solid
Discovery: 1817
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Photocopier
Many office
photocopiers
use selenium in
powdered form.
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172-173_Selenium_Tellurium.indd 172 12/12/16 5:40 pm