What is the difference between Silicon and Silicone?

Silicon, a naturally existing element that takes the 14th position on the periodic table, has features of both metals and nonmetals, and it is known to be the second most occurring element in the Earth after oxygen. Silicon willingly joins together with oxygen and is scarcely found to be existing on its own. Most commonly, it is seen either as silicon dioxide or silica, better known as quartz. Silicone, on the other hand, is somewhat a plastic polymer that consists of silicon, oxygen, and other elements, most especially carbon and hydrogen.

Silicone is basically a rubber-like plastic, sometimes liquid or flexible, and it has a number of useful characteristics, which include low toxicity and high heat resistance. It is also a very good source of electrical insulation. In the health sector, silicone is used in implants, catheters, contact lenses, bandages, and a variety of other things. It's also used in cosmetics

Silicon, first of all, is an element that occurs on the surface of the earth naturally. This element constitutes up to 27 percent of the rock surface. And it is the second most abundant element on the planet, second to only oxygen. When this element reacts with oxygen, it produces what we call silicate. Examples of silicates include mica, jadeite, quartz, feldspar, and more.

The pure form of silicon exists as grey crystals with a metallic luster. Silicon serves as an ideal semiconductor and also used in the manufacturing of solar cells. On the other, Silicone is a man-made substance, a polymer that is made from silicon, oxygen, and carbon. This product is available in different forms, which include solid, gel, and liquid forms. It is used industrially to lubricate machine parts. In its physical form, silicone is transparent, flexible, and has moisture-resistant resistant properties. It is inert in chemical reactions. Silicone has proven to be a good heat resistant substance and a good electrical insulator.