väärisgaaside

Väärisgaaside, also known as noble gases, are a group of chemical elements that share similar properties. They are characterized by their low reactivity due to having a full outer electron shell. This stable electron configuration makes them very reluctant to form chemical bonds with other elements. The väärisgaasid include helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), and radon (Rn). Oganesson (Og) is a synthetic element and is also considered a väärisgaas, though its properties are less well-understood due to its extreme instability.

In their pure form, väärisgaaside are colorless, odorless, and monatomic gases. They are found in the Earth's atmosphere in trace amounts, with argon being the most abundant at approximately 0.93%. Helium is primarily sourced from natural gas deposits. Due to their inert nature, they have found numerous applications. Helium is used in balloons, blimps, and as a coolant for superconducting magnets in MRI machines. Neon is famous for its use in lighting, producing a distinctive red-orange glow when an electric current passes through it. Argon is employed in welding to prevent oxidation and in incandescent light bulbs to prolong filament life. Krypton and xenon have specialized uses in high-intensity lighting and lasers. Radon is a radioactive väärisgaas and its presence in homes is a health concern due to its carcinogenicity.