Germanium

Properties

Structure

Germanium is considered a metalloid, and therefore wants to gain 4 electrons to be stable like Krypton. It also takes on most properties like metals, however it seems to have the quality of poor conductivity like non-metals do. This makes it a "semi-conductor". When found in a solid state, this element takes a diamond, crystal-like structure. (Barbalace) At room temperature, Germanium is found to be shiny on the surface. Both the chemical and physical properties have been found to be similar to those of Silicon.

http://www.chemicalelements.com/elements/ge.html

This is an excellent example of the structure of a Germanium atom. The circles with the negative sign represent the electrons in the atom. Each ring represents a shell. For example, the lightest purple ring represents the first shell, which can only hold a maximum of two electrons. This diagram is also an excellent example because it shows how electrons are in groups of two.

http://www.webelements.com/webelements/elements/text/Ge/xtal.html

This picture represents the crystal structure of the Element. The structure resembles that of a diamond, and can be described as a "crystal lattice". (Winter)

Useful Compounds

GeH₄- This compound is also known as Germaine, or in scientific terms Germanium Hydride. It is a clear gas that is produced by mixing Lithium Aluminum Hydride, Germanium Halide, and an aqueous form of Ether. This compound is classified as a poisonous, flammible gas. This overall makes the compound hazardous. (Barbalace) Germanium Hydride is very flammable, and may even explode when coming into contact with oxygen. If this compound is inhaled, the inhaler will experience discomfort or even burning in the abdominal area. It may also cause redness in the eyes and skin. Long term exposure to this chemical can result in death. This chemical is heavier than air, so it may travel freely close to the ground. (Germanium-Ge) Germanium hydride and Germanium Tetrahydride are almost exactly the same in chemical properties.

GeCl₂- This compound is known as Germanium Dichloride. This compound's appearance is anywhere from yellow to white, and at room temperature it is a solid in a crystal-like form. (Winter)

GeO₂- This compound is known as Germanium Dioxide. This compound is white in color, and at room temperature is in a solid, crystal-like state. Its melting point is 1116 degrees Celsius, while its boiling point is 1200 degrees Celsius. (Winter)

GeCl₄-This compound is known as Germanium Tetrachloride. This chemical may be harmful when coming in contact with the eyes, or other important membranes. (Barbalace) This chemical boils at 84 degrees Celsius. (Germanium)

Ag₈GeS₆- This compound is known as argyrodite. This examination of this compound led to the discovery of Germanium by Clemens Winkler in 1886. (Gagnon)

GeH₃- This compound is known as  Germanium Tetrahydride. Germanium Tetrahydride is very flammable, and may even explode when coming into contact with oxygen. If this compound is inhaled, the inhaler will experience discomfort or even burning in the abdominal area. It may also cause redness in the eyes and skin. Long term exposure to this chemical can result in death. This chemical is heavier than air, so it may travel freely close to the ground. (Germanium-Ge) Germanium hydride and Germanium Tetrahydride are almost exactly the same in chemical properties.