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 symbol: He
• Atomic number: 2
• Boiling point: -268.9°C
• Melting point: -272.2°C
• Density: 0.1786 g/L
• State at room temperature: Gas
• Uses: Helium is commonly used as a lifting gas in balloons, as a cooling medium for nuclear reactors and to create inert atmospheres for welding, and as a carrier gas in gas chromatography.

Study Guide:

To learn more about helium, here are some key points to study:

1. What is the atomic number of helium?
2. What are the properties of helium at room temperature?
3. What are the common uses of helium?
4. Why is helium used as a lifting gas in balloons?
5. How does helium behave under extreme conditions?

Understanding the properties and uses of helium will provide a solid foundation for further exploration of this fascinating element.