Discovered : by J.L. Gay-Lussac and L.J. Thenard in Paris, France, and Sir Humphry Davy in London, UK in 1808
Origin : The name is derived from the Arabic 'buraq', borax, its principal ore.
Description :
Pure boron is a little-used dark powder, but boron compounds are important in many industries, such as glass and detergent manufacture and agriculture. Pyrex glass is tough and heat resistant because of the boric acid used to make it. Boron is an essential mineral for plants but not animals - in fact it can be toxic in excess. We take in about 2 milligrams each day from our food (about 60g in a lifetime).
Image :
Strange fruit. Click here to see larger version of this image.
Boron animation - click the icon above for viewing instructions. QuickTime Player required.
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