⏰ when

When was germanium discovered?

Quick Answer

Germanium was discovered in 1886 by Clemens Winkler. Mendeleev had predicted it years earlier as eka-silicon.

The Full Story

Germanium was isolated in 1886 by German chemist Clemens Winkler from the mineral argyrodite. Its properties closely matched Mendeleev’s prediction for eka-silicon, another major success for the periodic table. The discovery showed that the table could guide real chemical research and not just classify known substances. Germanium later became important in semiconductors and early electronics.

Key Facts

1.Discovered in 1886
2.Predicted by Mendeleev as eka-silicon
3.Important in semiconductor history

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Suggested video title for this topic:

"The hidden element the periodic table foretold"

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