What is Silicon Monoxide Formula?
Formula
Silicon monoxide is a chemical compound with the formula SiO or OSi and is made from a mix of silicon (Si) and oxygen (O). It is one of the most common oxides of silicon in the universe.
Occurrence
The chemical compound, which is made up of two double bonds with each oxygen atom, is found naturally as the mineral quartz and is also used in a variety of products. It is a popular ingredient in baking powder, protein powder, salt and spices as well as other food additives.
Preparation
Most industrially produced silicon dioxide is obtained through the mining of quartz and then purification by acid neutralization or other chemical processes. However, it can also be produced by a wet process or by combustion of a silane such as silicon tetrachloride.
Uses
Among the many applications of silicon, it is used in a variety of electronic devices and solar cells to convert sunlight into electrical energy. It is also used to make semiconductor materials that are essential for computer chips and other electronic devices.
Safety
It is safe to eat silicon dioxide but it should be taken in limited amounts. It is important to know that your body can get rid of the silicon dioxide it absorbs through its kidneys. This makes it an unlikely cause of side effects in humans.
