Selenium

Selenium was discovered in 1817 by Jöns Jacob Berzelius, who named it after Selene, the Greek goddess of the Moon, because it was found alongside tellurium (named after Earth). Selenium is a fascinating element that conducts electricity better when light shines on it — a property called photoconductivity that made it essential for early photocopiers and light meters in cameras.

Selenium is a trace mineral your body needs in tiny amounts for thyroid function and as an antioxidant. Brazil nuts are the richest food source of selenium. In industry, selenium is used to color glass red, decolorize green-tinted glass, and in certain types of solar cells. Too much selenium is toxic, but just the right amount is essential for health.

Selenium's symbol 'Se' is a versatile two-letter element in Spellement. It matches the start of words like 'see,' 'set,' and 'seven,' fitting a very common English letter pair. This makes selenium one of the most naturally useful element symbols for creative word building.