Wikijunior:The Elements/Beryllium
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[edit] What does it look, feel, taste, or smell like?
Beryllium has a sweet taste to it, but due to its toxicity it should not be eaten or sampled. It is grey, and light-weight.
[edit] How was it discovered?
Beryllium was found by Louis-Nicolas Vaquelin in 1798. Vacquelin found beryllium in beryl and emeralds.
[edit] Where did its name come from?
The name came from the Greek word for pale because the gemstone beryl is pale.
Did You Know?
- It is not known to be useful or necessary for plant or animal life.
- It usually used as hardening for metals.
- It does not rust at room temperature.
[edit] Where is it found?
It is found rarely in isolation in the earth. It is found in in 30 mineral species including: terlandite, beryl, chrsoberge, and phenacite.
[edit] What are its uses?
Because beryllium is one of the lightest metals and has one of the highest melting points of light metals, it has been used in structures for high speed aircraft and missiles. Because it also does not spark, it is used in non-sparking tools. And finally, because it does not react with acid and uranium it is used to make nuclear generators.
[edit] Is it dangerous?
Yes, it is highly toxic when eaten.
[edit] References
Wikipedia, 9/18/2008, Beryllium, Wikipedia the free encyclopedia.
