Page 197 - The Periodic Table Book

18
Ar Argon

Discovery: 1894
18 18 22 State: Gas
Forms This sample of argon Uses
is trapped in a glass
sphere, and gives off Noble Gases
a pale purple colour Argon-filled suit Some diving suits
Pure argon in a glass sphere argon to retain
when electrified.
are inflated with
heat in cold water.

Double-glazed
window

The space
between the
glass panes
is filled with
Metal welding
argon to
slow the loss
of heat.

Argon-filled display
The Magna Carta, a historical document, is stored Argon in this flame
in argon, which forces out oxygen and water vapour prevents metals from
that would damage the parchment.
reacting with oxygen

Argon is the third most abundant gas in the and in diving suits during cold, deep dives.
atmosphere, after nitrogen and oxygen. It Its lack of reactivity is useful. Argon is used in
undergoes no reactions with any other element, museum displays to protect delicate exhibits.
and was named after the Greek word argos, It also stops metals reacting during hot welding.
meaning “idle”. Argon does not conduct heat This element can also be useful in the production
well so it is put in double-glazed windows, of titanium. 195

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