Silicon dioxide

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Silicon dioxide, also known as silica, is the main dioxide of silicon. With the chemical formula SiO2, it is commonly found in nature as quartz. Silica is the major constituent of sand. Silica is one of the most complex and abundant families of materials, existing as several minerals and as a synthetic product. Examples include fused quartz, fumed silica, opal, and aerogels. It is used in structural materials, microelectronics, and as components in the food and pharmaceutical industries. All forms are white or colorless, although impure samples can be colored or opaque. Silicon dioxide is main constituent of most glass.

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