Silica

Definition

Silica, or silicon dioxide, is a chemical compound commonly found in sand and quartz. In chemistry labs, it's often used as stationary phase in chromatography due to its polar nature.

Related terms

Silicate Minerals: These are minerals composed largely of silicon and oxygen atoms, forming majority of Earth's crust.

Quartz: This is one of most common forms of silica in nature, often used in making glass and other materials.

Adsorption: This refers to process where atoms or molecules from gas or liquid adhere onto surface of solid material like silica.