Helium: Discovering the Properties and Versatile Uses of the Second Lightest Element
Helium is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that is the second lightest element in the periodic table. It is a noble gas and is very unreactive, which means it does not easily form compounds with other elements. Helium has some unique properties that makes it useful in a variety of applications.
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| Properties and real life applications of helium |
Properties of Helium:
Chemical Symbol: He
Atomic Number: 2
Atomic Mass: 4.0026
Electron Configuration: 1s2
Melting Point: -272.2°C
Boiling Point: -268.9°C
Density: 0.1785 g/L
Helium has an atomic number of 2 which means it has two protons and two electrons. It is the second lightest element in the periodic table after hydrogen. Helium is a noble gas and is very unreactive this means that it does not easily form compounds with other elements. It is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas.
Helium is the only element that can remain in a liquid state at standard temperature and pressure. At temperatures close to absolute zero, it can become a superfluid which means it has zero viscosity and can flow without any resistance. This makes it useful in research applications such as in cryogenics & in the study of quantum mechanics.
Real Life Uses of Helium:
Balloons: Helium is often used to fill balloons because it is lighter than air. When released, helium filled balloons float upwards and creating a fun and festive atmosphere at parties and events.
Medical Applications: Helium is used in medical applications such as respiratory treatments and MRI machines. Its low density allows it to be used as a gas for breathing, while its low atomic number makes it ideal for use in MRI imaging. Because it does not interfere with the magnetic field.
Welding: Helium is used as a shielding gas in welding & it can help prevent oxidation and improve the quality of the weld. It can also be mixed with other gases such as argon to create a welding gas with specific properties.
Deep Sea Diving: Helium is used as a breathing gas for deep sea diving because it is less dense than air and does not cause nitrogen narcosis. This narcosis is a condition that can occur when diving at great depths.
Cooling Systems: Helium is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors and other high temperature applications. Its low density and high thermal conductivity makes it an ideal coolant for these applications.
In conclusion, helium is an important element with unique properties that makes it useful in a variety of applications. From filling balloons to medical applications, welding, deep sea diving and cooling systems. Helium has a range of real life uses that make it an important part of our daily lives. As research continues to explore the potential of helium, it is likely to become even more important element in our modern world.
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