silver [Ag]

Introduction

From the Anglo-Saxon seolfor meaning silver. The symbol (Ag) is from the Latin word for silver, argentum. Silver was separated from lead as early as 3000 BC.

Occurrence

• ores argenite & horn silver
• occurs in association with ores containing lead, copper & gold

Characteristics

• a white metallic element
• sonorous, ductile, very malleable
• capable of a high degree of polish
• univalent in compounds (Ag+)
• has the highest thermal & electrical conductivity of any substance
• has the lowest contact resistance of all metals

Uses

• photographic film
• tooth fillings
• silverware
• mirrors
• batteries
• photosensitive glass
• electrical conductor
• AgI is used for seeding clouds to produce rain

Pathology

• argyria

More general terms

• chemical element
• metal

Additional terms

• Ag+
• argyria
• periodic table

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=23954
• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=104755