Silicon (Si - atomic number 14) behaves very similarly to carbon (C - atomic number 6). They both are able to form complex molecular chains. For example, long chains of carbon molecules are able to build proteins and DNA and, therefore, live forms and organic matter. Silicon-based life forms exist as well. Certain sea sponges are known to have silica based skeletal structures. Silicon also has the ability to form semiconducting crystals, which allows it to be utilized for a variety of purposes (The Elements : A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe).
The main ingredient in glass is white silica beach sand, (silicon dioxide), which has nearly endless applications in the fields art and design, as well as science and technology. Because silicon is able to form complex molecular chains, and bonds easily with other elements, silica-based glass can be as delicate, or as durable, as the creator intends. In recent history, silica has played a vital role in the development of computer components. Fused silica lenses are able to reduce a circuit's pattern and focus it onto the silicon computer chip.
