Neon was discovered in 1898 by Sir William Ramsay, a Scottish chemist, and Morris Travers, an English chemist. They isolated neon from the atmosphere by using a process called fractional distillation of liquidair.
Atomic Structure:
Neon has 10 electrons arranged in 2 energy levels. Its electron configuration is 1s2 2s2 2p6. The outermost energy level is full, which gives neon its stable and inert characteristics.
Uses of Neon:
Neon is commonly used in neon lights, which are used in advertising signs and decorative lighting. The characteristic red-orange glow of neon lights is due to the electric discharge in the gas. Neon is also used in high-voltage indicators, television tubes, and wave meter tubes.
Fun Facts about Neon:
Neon is the fifth most abundant element in the universe, but it is relatively rare on Earth.
The word "neon" is derived from the Greek word "neos," which means "new."
Neon signs were first displayed in Paris in 1910 at the Grand Palais.
