Archived Content

Information identified as archived on the Web is for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It has not been altered or updated after the date of archiving. Web pages that are archived on the Web are not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards. As per the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada, you can request alternate formats by contacting us.

Selenium

Selenium is a relatively rare element that is normally extracted as a by-product from copper ore. The name selenium comes from the Greek "selene" meaning "moon." Selenium possesses an unpleasant odour, and in nature, this element exists in two main forms – the stable silvery crystalline form and the reactive red powder.

Selenium has a role to play in printing. Due to the presence of selenium as the photoreceptor in photocopy machines, we are able to obtain duplicate copies of reports, pictures, and other documents on paper.

Cells that convert light to electricity are known as photocells. Selenium possesses both photovoltaic and electronic properties, which combined with its photo-conducting properties, make it a prime element for use in photometers for photography.