Silane (SiH4)

Definition

Silane is a chemical compound made up of silicon and hydrogen, represented by the formula SiH4. It is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature and is the simplest member of the silane family, which includes more complex silanes with varying numbers of silicon atoms. This compound plays a significant role in the production of silicon-based materials and is important in various applications, including semiconductors and coatings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Silane has a tetrahedral molecular geometry due to the four hydrogen atoms bonded to the central silicon atom, resulting in bond angles of approximately 109.5 degrees.
2. In the presence of moisture, silane can hydrolyze to form silica, making it useful for surface modification and coating applications.
3. Silane is used in the production of silicon wafers for electronics and solar cells, as it can provide high-purity silicon for these technologies.
4. Due to its flammability and reactivity, silane must be handled with caution in laboratory and industrial settings, often requiring specialized equipment.
5. Silane is also used in the preparation of silicone polymers through its polymerization reactions, contributing to the vast array of silicone products available today.

Review Questions

• How does the molecular geometry of silane relate to its chemical properties?
  • The tetrahedral molecular geometry of silane results from the four hydrogen atoms bonded to a central silicon atom, creating bond angles close to 109.5 degrees. This geometry influences its chemical reactivity and stability. For example, this spatial arrangement allows silane to effectively participate in reactions such as hydrosilylation and hydrolysis, which are essential for creating various silicon-based materials.
• Discuss the significance of silane in the semiconductor industry and its impact on technology.
  • Silane is critical in the semiconductor industry as it serves as a precursor for producing high-purity silicon wafers used in electronic devices. By utilizing silane in chemical vapor deposition processes, manufacturers can create thin films of silicon that are essential for transistors and integrated circuits. The purity and quality of silicon produced from silane directly impact the performance and reliability of modern electronic technologies, making it a cornerstone material in this field.
• Evaluate the environmental considerations associated with the use of silane in industrial applications.
  • While silane has beneficial applications in various industries, its environmental impact must be evaluated. The flammability and reactivity pose risks during manufacturing and handling processes. Additionally, its hydrolysis leads to silica formation, which can contribute to particulate matter pollution if not managed properly. Industries using silane must implement safety protocols and consider sustainable practices to mitigate these risks while benefiting from its valuable properties in product development.

Related terms

Silicon: A chemical element with the symbol Si, essential for many electronic devices and a primary component in semiconductors.

Hydrosilylation: A chemical reaction that involves the addition of silanes to alkenes or alkynes, often used to create silicon-containing compounds.

Organosilicon Compounds: Compounds that contain carbon-silicon bonds, typically used in various industrial applications, including adhesives and sealants.