noun
- elements that have properties intermediate between those of metals and nonmetals, such as silicon and germanium
Usage: chemistry; materials science
Examples
- Silicon and germanium are important semimetals used in computer chips.
- Semimetals conduct electricity better than nonmetals but not as well as metals.
- The periodic table shows semimetals positioned between metals and nonmetals.
- Boron is classified as one of the semimetals.
- Engineers study semimetals for their unique electrical properties.
- Antimony and arsenic are examples of semimetals with industrial applications.