What Is Neon?

neon

Neon is a noble gas and a colorless, odorless, inert, monatomic element with the chemical symbol of Ne. It is the fifth most abundant element in the universe by mass but a rare gas on Earth. Its atomic structure prevents it from reacting with other elements, and it never forms compounds. It is found in a few natural processes, such as the bubbling of hot springs and fumaroles at volcanic vents. The most common application of neon is in signs and lamps that produce a reddish-orange light. Neon is also used in vacuum and plasma tubes, wave meter tubes and television tubes.

/ TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Neon is nonflammable and noncombustible, but it can asphyxiate if inhaled in large concentrations. It is also a simple asphyxiant in small quantities, but it has no other significant physiologic effects.

When an electrical current passes through a tube filled with neon and/or argon, the atoms in the gases are excited, or ionized. The ionization gives the atoms more energy, which they release as light. The color of the light produced by neon signs depends on several factors, including the composition of the gases, the temperature of the tubes and the amount of electricity passing through the tubes. Neon ions can also be used in radiotherapy to target cancer cells with high radiation doses while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. This approach has the potential to reduce toxicity, increase patient tolerance and improve outcomes.