Why silicon is abundant in earth surface?

Question

What is the reason for having silicon in so large quantity on earth surface?

Answer 1

Silicon is a metal; and, metals are abundant in the earth's surface because of the fate and transport of these elements. Unlike nitrogen, carbon, and non-metal substances metals do not dissipate, or leave the atmosphere. Take phosphorous for example, phosphorous enters the atmosphere by way of condensation and re-enters the earths lower levels during precipitation events. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Yes! The earth is layered based on the density of the materials. So the most dense materials, when earth was still a giant pool of liquid magma, moved to the center of the earth. This is now the core, made of iron and nickel mainly. The slightly lighter elements make up the mantle- iron, magnesium, and some silica. But the lightest elements that make rocks, silicon and oxygen, rose to the surface! This process is called 'density stratification' and it is why there is so much Si on the surface of the earth!