What is a Tellurium (Te)?

Tellurium (Te) is a chemical element with atomic number 52. It is a metalloid, belonging to the oxygen group (Group 16) in the periodic table. Tellurium is grayish or silver-white in appearance at room temperature and is brittle in nature, exhibiting metallic properties but chemically differing from metals. It shares similarities with sulfur, selenium, and oxygen but has a larger atomic radius, showing more metallic properties. Tellurium is reactive and can form various oxidation states, commonly +2, +4, and +6.

Tellurium is used in semiconductor materials, optical devices, and the production of batteries. It is particularly used in high-efficiency solar panels and photovoltaic cells. Tellurium compounds also play an important role in electronics and sensor technologies. For example, sodium telluride (Na₂Te) and tellurous acid (H₂TeO₃) are compounds used in chemical analysis and mineral processing.

Due to its chemical properties, tellurium is a highly toxic element. High concentrations can pose risks to human health, particularly to the respiratory and nervous systems. Adequate safety measures are essential when handling tellurium.

Although not an essential element for biological systems, trace amounts of tellurium can be found in animals and plants. It plays a role in redox reactions within cells and can regulate enzyme activities, but excessive intake is harmful.

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