Germanium (symbol Ge, atomic number 32) is a metalloid central to early transistors and modern fibre-optic and infrared optics. It is classified as a metalloid and sits in group 14, period 4 of the periodic table.
Overview
Germanium is the chemical element with atomic number 32 and the symbol Ge. With a standard atomic weight of 72.63, it is a metalloid. In the periodic table it occupies group 14 and period 4, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Germanium is a metalloid central to early transistors and modern fibre-optic and infrared optics.
Atomic structure
An atom of Germanium has 32 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 32 electrons arranged in the configuration [Ar] 3d10 4s2 4p2. Its standard atomic weight of 72.63 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Germanium was discovered in 1886 by Clemens Winkler. It follows Gallium (Ga) and precedes Arsenic (As) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 32 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Ge |
| Atomic mass | 72.63 |
| Category | Metalloid |
| Group | 14 |
| Period | 4 |
| Electron configuration | [Ar] 3d10 4s2 4p2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1886 (Clemens Winkler) |