Basic Concepts of Inorganic Chemistry, 2nd Edition

19

Group — 18, The Noble Gases

Helium, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe and Rn are noble gases and elements of group 18 (or zero group). They are minor constituents of the atmosphere. Sir William Ramse first isolated Ne, Ar, Kr and Xe. He also established He. It is found in stars, in radioactive minerals and some natural gasses. Its origin is entirely from the decay of thorium and uranium isotopes, which emit α-particles. The last member of the group Rn is radioactive (all isotopes). These gases are obtained by fractionation of liquid air.

Properties

Table 19.1

Note

1. Ar is most abundant and Kr is least

Atomicity

All noble gases are monoatomic. It is due to closed-shell ...