Silicon and oxygen atoms are arranged in a three dimensional covalent network. A portion of such a framework is shown here. In this arrangement, the stoichiometry is reduced to SiO2, (each silicon has a half share of four oxygens) which is often called silica. A collection of small pieces of quartz is sand.
Have a quick look at the video of Felix Baumgarten, a human with a huge amount of gravitational potential as he jumps from a platform slung beneath a balloon 39,000 meters above the earth’s surface.
Have a look at the theory then tackle the questions at the end of this post.
Watch the presentation carefully including the video then attempt the questions below. There will be a tutorial this Friday morning between 7.30 and 8.30 if you want more help.