Daily Archives: April 4, 2018

Hattie Alexander — April 5 celebrates Dr. Hattie Alexander birthday. If you suffered from infant meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, she more than likely saved your life. This type of meningitis is a bacterial infection which inflames the tissues which cover the brain and spinal cord. This usually causes a high fever and […]

Today in Science History – April 5 – Hattie Alexander ...

This entry was posted on April 4, 2018 by Todd Helmenstine (updated on April 12, 2025)

Silicone is a polymer, like this blue cup. Silicon is a metalloid element. (Tatsuo Yamashita) — Silicon and silicone are two commonly confused terms. It’s understandable, since the only difference between the written words is the letter “e.” However, one is an element from the periodic table, while the other is a compound that contains that element. They aren’t the same, any more than saying carbon […]

What Is the Difference Between Silicon and Silicone?

This entry was posted on April 4, 2018 by Anne Helmenstine (updated on May 10, 2021)