Neon (pronounced: NE-ohs) is an inert gas that is a minor component of Earth’s atmosphere. It is a member of the noble gases, which also includes argon, krypton and xenon, all found naturally in small quantities on Earth. The gases are referred to as noble because they do not react with other substances and form no known compounds. They are highly inert and, as such, they are used as a cryogenic refrigerant.
Neon is colorless and odorless when confined to a glass tube. When an alternating current is applied to the electrodes at either end of the tube, the electricity creates enough energy for the neon atoms inside the tube to separate and emit a bright orange-red light. Neon was first used to make luminous signs by Georges Claude in Paris in 1910.
The luminescence of neon is caused by electrons emitted from the nucleus of each atom, causing them to scatter light and produce a visible glow. When the gas is excited with electric discharge, these electrons whizz around the tube as they bump into other atoms and release more electrons. This process gives the tube its familiar orange-red appearance and is how neon lights are made.
Neon has no known toxic effects, but its high boiling point and low vapor pressure mean it can only be manufactured as a liquid at very cold temperatures. When combined with helium it is used in the production of high voltage indicators and Geiger counters, while in its liquid state it is employed as a refrigerant.
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