Eka-silicon is known as Germanium.
Understanding Eka-Silicon
The term "eka-silicon" originates from Dmitri Mendeleev's predictions based on his periodic table. Mendeleev used the prefix "eka-" (Sanskrit for "one") to denote an element one place below a known element in the same group. He predicted the existence and properties of several undiscovered elements, referring to them as eka-boron, eka-aluminum, and eka-silicon.
In the case of eka-silicon, Mendeleev predicted an element that would sit directly below silicon in the periodic table. He accurately predicted several of its properties.
Eka-Silicon: Germanium
Mendeleev's eka-silicon corresponds to the element we now know as Germanium (Ge). The discovery of germanium in 1886 by Clemens Winkler validated Mendeleev's periodic table and predictive powers.
Mendeleev's Predictions vs. Actual Properties of Germanium
| Property | Mendeleev's Prediction (Eka-Silicon) | Actual Property (Germanium) |
|---|---|---|
| Atomic Weight | 72 | 72.6 |
| Density | 5.5 g/cm³ | 5.32 g/cm³ |
| Color | Dirty gray | Grayish-white |
| Oxide Formula | EsO₂ | GeO₂ |
| Oxide Density | 4.7 g/cm³ | 4.22 g/cm³ |
As the table shows, Mendeleev's predictions were remarkably accurate. The close correspondence between the predicted and actual properties of germanium provided strong support for the periodic law.
