Discovery Information
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Who: Jons Berzelius |
When: 1817 |
Where: Sweden |
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Name Origin
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Greek: Selene (Moon) |
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Sources
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Obtained from lead, silver, copper and nickel refining.
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Uses
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Used in photoelectric cells, TV cameras, as a semiconductor in solar batteries, light meters, copy machines, anti-dandruff
shampoo and rectifiers. Also colours glass red.
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Notes
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Conducts electricity when struck by light. The element selenium is non-toxic, but many of its compounds are extremely toxic
and behave in the same way as arsenic.
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Selenium is found in humans, but in trace amounts. |
Some clinical studies have shown that selenium may help cut the risk of certain cancers. |