Radon (Rn)
Radon (Rn) is element 86, a noble gas. Atomic mass 222, configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p⁶. Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 86 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Rn |
| Standard atomic weight | 222 |
| Category | Noble Gas |
| Group | 18 |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Gas |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p⁶ |
| Valence electrons | 8 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| First ionization energy | 1037 kJ/mol |
| Density | 9.074 g/L |
| Melting point | -71°C |
| Boiling point | -61.70°C |
| Specific heat | 0.094 J/(g·°C) |
Common uses
- Radiation therapy (historical)
- Earthquake prediction research
Where it matters
- Indoor Air Quality (Lung cancer risk in basements)
Hazards
- Radioactive gas
- carcinogen via inhalation
History
| Discovered | 1900 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Friedrich Ernst Dorn |
| Name | Derived from Radium |