Tellurium is a rare metalloid used in solar cells, thermoelectrics, and alloys that need improved machinability.
Atomic number
52
Category
Metalloid
Period
5
Group
16
State
Solid
Fun facts about Tellurium
Cadmium telluride converts light directly into electricity in thin-film solar panels.
Bismuth telluride is a widely used thermoelectric material.
Tellurium is mainly recovered as a by-product of copper refining.
Common uses of Tellurium
Thin-film solar cells
Thermoelectric devices
Steel and copper alloys
Where Tellurium sits in the periodic table
Tellurium is classified as a metalloid in period 5 and group 16 of the periodic table. Under the conditions represented in this reference, its state is solid.
Quick chemistry revision
For quick revision, pair the symbol Te with atomic number 52 and the listed atomic mass 127.60. The summary, facts, and uses above keep those element properties together in one reference.