Germanium

Uses

        Germanium has many important uses that relate to science, medicine, or even just every-day life. Though Germanium is a poor conductor, it's largest use is one of the conducting elements in transistors, or other rectifying devices. This demonstrates that Germanium, though not an excellent conductor, is an important element that allows the use of various electrical devices in every-day life. It was discovered by Karl Lark-Horovitz at Purdue University during World War II that Germanium could be used in rectifiers to increase their life-span.  This made communication through radios and televisions easier, and therefore helped the military, and allowed the public to stay better-informed. (Augenbraun) Also, because some Germanium compounds have been useful in killing bacteria, they are currently being studied as a possible use in chemotherapy. The Germanium has been found to be ineffective towards mammals, however is toxic to various types of bacteria. (Germanium) This could cause a breakthrough in cancer research and treatment, and eventually allow more people to recover from cancer. (Gagnon) This demonstrates that Germanium is a vital element in medical and scientific research. Germanium oxide is also used in glass to increase the index of refraction. This is especially useful in eyeglasses, and allows those with specific problems on the corners of their eyes to see better. These lenses are also useful in microscopes and cameras. This revolutionizes science, because with the new microscope lens, samples may be magnified, and studied carefully. (Germanium) This also demonstrates Germanium's use in scientific research. Germanium is also found to be useful in the dental practice. The element can be found in the "fillings" in teeth. This shows that Germanium is able to help the health and hygiene of people every day, making people less prone to dental problems. Germanium can often be used as a catalyst in many scientific experiments. A catalyst is "a substance, usually used in small amounts relative to the reactants, that modifies and increases the rate of a reaction without being consumed in the process", as defined by http://www.dictionary.com. This means that Germanium is used to help stimulate the reaction, and decrease the time of the process. (Winter) This is extremely useful to help speed up an important reaction. Germanium is also used to create alloys in fluorescent lamps. These lamps are useful because they preserve more energy than regular lamps do, with basically the same result. (Winter)