Oksygengass

Oksygengass, or oxygen gas, is the diatomic molecule with chemical formula O2. It consists of two oxygen atoms bound together and is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas. In ambient air it makes up about 21% by volume and is paramagnetic due to two unpaired electrons.

Natural occurrence and production: Oxygen is essential for most forms of life and occurs widely in the Earth’s crust as oxides. In the atmosphere it accounts for roughly one fifth of the air. Industrially, it is produced by fractional distillation of liquefied air or by the electrolysis of water; it is stored as compressed gas or as a cryogenic liquid.

Physical properties: Oxygen has a boiling point of about −183°C and a melting point around −219°C. At standard conditions its density is about 1.43 g/L. It is non-flammable but readily supports combustion and oxidizes many substances. In the upper atmosphere, O2 participates in reactions that form ozone.

Applications: It is used to support respiration for humans and animals in medical and industrial contexts. In metal fabrication and welding, oxygen is a key component of oxy-fuel processes. It also serves as an oxidizer in chemical synthesis and, in liquid form (LOX), as a major oxidizer in rocket propulsion.

Safety and handling: As an oxidizer, oxygen can intensify fires and should be kept away from fuels and organic materials. High concentrations or pressures can pose health risks, including oxygen toxicity in some diving or high-altitude scenarios. In enclosed spaces, oxygen can displace nitrogen, creating an asphyxiation hazard; proper storage and handling protocols are essential.