FAQs on Group 18 (Noble Gas Family) Properties Video Lecture - JEE
1. What are the properties of the Noble Gas Family? |
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Ans. The Noble Gas Family, also known as Group 18 on the periodic table, consists of the elements helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, and radon. These elements are characterized by their full outer electron shells, making them highly stable and unreactive. They are colorless, odorless, and tasteless gases at room temperature and have low boiling and melting points. Additionally, they have low densities and are poor conductors of heat and electricity.
2. Why are noble gases considered unreactive? |
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Ans. Noble gases are considered unreactive due to their stable electron configurations. They have full outer electron shells, meaning they have achieved the maximum number of electrons in their valence shells. This stability makes it difficult for noble gases to gain or lose electrons and form chemical bonds with other elements. As a result, they rarely participate in chemical reactions, making them highly unreactive.
3. What is the significance of noble gases in lighting? |
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Ans. Noble gases are commonly used in lighting due to their unique properties. When an electrical current is passed through a tube filled with noble gases, they emit characteristic colors of light. For example, neon produces a red-orange glow, while argon emits a blue-violet color. This phenomenon is utilized in neon signs, fluorescent lamps, and other types of gas discharge lamps, providing bright and colorful illumination.
4. How are noble gases used in cryogenics? |
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Ans. Noble gases, particularly helium, are widely used in cryogenics. Cryogenics is the branch of physics that deals with the production and behavior of extremely low temperatures. Helium, with its extremely low boiling point, is used as a coolant in various cryogenic applications, such as superconducting magnets, MRI machines, and particle accelerators. It is also used to create and maintain low-temperature environments for scientific research and industrial processes.
5. What are the health risks associated with noble gases? |
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Ans. While noble gases are generally considered safe and non-toxic, some of them can pose health risks in certain situations. For example, radon, which is a radioactive noble gas, can be harmful when it accumulates in enclosed spaces, such as basements, as it can increase the risk of lung cancer. Additionally, inhaling high concentrations of any noble gas, including helium or argon, can displace oxygen in the air and lead to asphyxiation. Therefore, proper ventilation and safety precautions should be taken when working with or in proximity to noble gases.