Bor

Other names: boron

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Boron, also known as boron, is a chemical element with the symbol B and atomic number 5. It occurs naturally in calcium borate and other forms, is relatively scarce, and is mostly dispersed in seawater and in the Earth's crust. This element is relatively hard, brittle and has low electrical and thermal conductivity. Boron is relatively resistant, and does not react with hydrogen, oxygen or nitrogen, but is able to react with metallic elements under certain conditions.

Although it is an element that is relatively rare in nature, its importance in industry and other sectors is undeniable. For example, boron is used in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, where it improves resistance to temperature and mechanical stresses. In nuclear engineering, boron is used for its ability to absorb neutrons, making it practical for example in the control rods of nuclear reactors. Boron is also of great importance in space technology, where it is used in the production of rocket fuels. Other uses of boron are found in medicine, where it is used to treat some forms of cancer. In agriculture, boron is used as part of fertilisers because it is important for plant growth and development.