Sand

[annie]

Summer is upon us and you are almost certainly planning at least one trip to the beach. This year, as you lie back in the sun, put down your book or magazine and sift the sand through your fingers - and take a moment to reflect upon how much of the world economy is built on the stuff.

I don't mean "built on sand" in a philosophical sense, however true that may be. I'm talking about three technological revolutions that are literally based on sand, one of which is only just beginning and, if it lives up to its potential, has mind-boggling implications.

You've probably already guessed the element at the heart of these revolutions - silicon, the main component of sand.

The original silicon revolution was of course, glass. Man first began to explore its properties a million and a half years ago - that's when our ancient ancestors discovered that obsidian, the almost jet black glass which is sometimes formed when lava cools rapidly, was useful.

MORE:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-28600802

[Rosalind]

tha22222

[maureenho]

Interesting stuff  tha22222

[wendy]

As I sat on the sands on Thursday I was intriqued by the millions and millions of stones.
Where do they come from, where do they go.
How old are they?
thank you for this interesting topic.