Noble gases are a group of elements found in Group 18 of the periodic table. They are called “noble” because they are very stable and unreactive under normal conditions. This stability comes from their completely filled outer electron shells, which makes them unlikely to gain, lose, or share electrons.
Key characteristics of noble gases:
- They are colorless, odorless, and tasteless gases.
- They exist as single atoms (monatomic).
- They have very low chemical reactivity.
- They have low boiling and melting points.
- They glow when electricity passes through them, which makes them useful in lights and signs.
The noble gases are: Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, and Radon.
Examples of uses:
- Helium is used in balloons and breathing mixtures.
- Neon is used in advertising signs.
- Argon is used in welding and light bulbs.
- Xenon is used in camera flashes and lamps.