Noble Gases

What are the Noble gases?

Found in group 0, they are: Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon and Radon.

What are their properties?

They are all inert (lacking the ability to move or act, either physically or chemically), colourless gases at room temperature. They're all monatomic - their gases are made up of single atoms not molecules. They are inert because they have a full outer shell meaning they are stable.

Melting and boiling points

Group 0 elements have very low melting and boiling points, which increase down the group as the relative atomic mass increases. This is because the forces of attraction between individual atoms are weak, making it easier to overcome them and for the state to change.

Reaction level

They are highly unreactive because they have a full outer shell (inert) meaning they are stable

Use of helium

Used in airships, weather balloons and party balloons because its low density helps it float.

Use of neon

Emits a bright light when a current passes through it so is used for signs that need to glow.

Use of argon

Very unreactive and non-flammable so is used in filament lamps. Also used to protect metals that are being welded because its inert atmosphere stops the hot metal reacting with oxygen