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indium

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Indium is a chemical element with the symbol In and atomic number 49. It is a soft, silvery-white metal that is found in the earth's crust. Indium is not very common, but it is used in a variety of products, such as semiconductors, thermometers, and lasers.

Indium is a post-transition metal that is chemically similar to gallium and thallium. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity, and it is also a good reflector of light.

Indium is used in a variety of products because of its unique properties. It is used in semiconductors because it has a high melting point and a low electrical resistance. This makes it possible to make very small and efficient transistors.

Indium is also used in thermometers because it has a very low melting point. This makes it possible to make very accurate thermometers that can measure very small changes in temperature.

Indium is also used in lasers because it can produce a very pure light. Lasers are used in a variety of applications, such as surgery and manufacturing.

Indium is a relatively rare element, but it is important for a variety of technologies. As demand for these technologies grows, the demand for indium is likely to increase as well.

How can the word be used?

Indium is a relatively rare element in the Earth's crust.

indium

Different forms of the word

The word "indium" has only one form. It is a noun that refers to a chemical element with the symbol In and atomic number 49. Indium is a soft, silvery-white metal that is relatively rare in the Earth's crust.

Etymology

The word "indium" comes from the Latin word "indicus", which means "of India". This is because indium was first discovered in the mineral zinc blende, which is found in India.

Question

What is indium?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the properties and applications of indium in modern technology, detailing its unique characteristics as a metal and its role in various electronic devices, and discuss the importance of indium recycling for sustainability.

Answer:

Indium is a versatile metal with distinct properties that make it valuable for a range of technological applications. It possesses a relatively low melting point and is highly malleable, allowing it to be easily shaped and integrated into various devices. One of its notable applications is in the production of transparent conductive films used in touchscreens and liquid crystal displays (LCDs). Indium tin oxide (ITO), a compound of indium, is transparent and electrically conductive, making it ideal for these applications.

Indium is also employed in semiconductors, photovoltaic cells, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Its ability to efficiently convert electrical energy into light has made it essential in producing bright and energy-efficient displays.

Given the increasing demand for electronic devices, recycling indium has become crucial for sustainability. The supply of indium is limited, and its extraction and refining processes can have environmental impacts. Recycling old electronics, such as LCD screens, allows for the recovery of indium, reducing the need for new mining and promoting resource conservation.

In conclusion, indium's unique properties have made it indispensable in modern technology, contributing to the functionality of electronic devices like touchscreens and LEDs. As we strive for sustainability, recycling indium from discarded electronics plays a significant role in conserving resources and minimising the environmental footprint associated with its production.