Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that is found in the earth’s crust. It is a trace mineral, which means that the body needs only a small amount of it. Selenium is important for the body because it helps to protect cells from damage and it helps to keep the thyroid gland functioning properly. Selenium can be found in foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and nuts. It is also available as a dietary supplement.

Electronic Configuration of Selenium

Selenium (atomic number 34) has an electronic configuration of [Ar]3d104s24p4. In this configuration, there are three 4p orbitals and four 3d orbitals. The 3d orbitals are filled in order from the bottom up, so selenium has four 3d electrons.

Properties of Selenium

Selenium is a non-metallic element that is found in the earth’s crust. It is a silver-white, lustrous, brittle, semiconductor material. Selenium has several properties that make it useful in a wide variety of applications. These properties include its semiconductor properties, its resistance to corrosion, and its ability to form alloys with other metals. Selenium is also a good conductor of electricity and heat.

Physical and Chemical Properties of Selenium

Selenium is a chemical element with the symbol Se and atomic number 34. It is a brittle, silver-white metalloid that is slightly less common than gold. Selenium is found in several minerals, including selenite and montroseite. The most important selenium mineral is called roselite. Selenium has several physical properties that make it unique. It is the only element that is a liquid at room temperature and has a semiconductor electronic structure. Selenium is also the only non-metal that is a photoconductor.

Uses of Selenium

Selenium is used in a variety of ways. It is used to make glass, as a pigment, in batteries, and as a nutritional supplement.

Disadvantages of Selenium

1. Selenium is a toxic mineral and can be harmful in large doses.

2. Selenium can also interact with other medications and supplements.

3. Selenium deficiency is rare, so supplementation is not usually necessary.

Selenium: Summary in Tabular form

Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to human health. Selenium is a component of several enzymes and is required for normal thyroid function, DNA synthesis, and reproduction. Selenium is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Selenium is found in small amounts in many foods, including Brazil nuts, seafood, poultry, and beef. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for selenium is 55 micrograms per day for adults.

Selenium deficiency is rare in the United States, but can occur in people who do not eat a balanced diet or who have a disease that affects their ability to absorb nutrients. Symptoms of selenium deficiency include hair loss, nail problems, and a weakened immune system.

Selenium supplementation is not routinely recommended, but it may be beneficial for people who have a selenium deficiency or who are at risk for heart disease or cancer. Selenium supplements are available in pill form and as selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts.