Helium

Helium is a chemical element with the symbol He and atomic number 2. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, inert, monatomic gas that heads the noble gas group in the periodic table. Its boiling and melting points are the lowest among the elements and it exists only as a gas except in extreme conditions.

Properties of Helium:

• Atomic number: 2
• Symbol: He
• State: Gas
• Color: Colorless
• Odor: Odorless
• Density: 0.1786 g/L
• Boiling Point: -268.9°C
• Melting Point: -272.2°C
• Uses: Helium is used in cryogenics, as a gas for breathing, as a lifting gas for balloons and airships, in gas chromatography, and as a coolant for nuclear reactors.

Study Guide:

1. What is the atomic number of helium?
2. Describe the physical properties of helium.
3. What are the common uses of helium?
4. What is the state of helium at room temperature?
5. Why is helium used as a lifting gas for balloons and airships?