X

Xenon

Xe CAS 7440-63-3
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationXe
CAS Number7440-63-3
Molecular Weight131.29 g/mol
Melting Point−111.75°C (161.4 K)
Boiling Point−108.12°C (165.03 K)
Density5.894 g/L at STP
AppearanceColorless, odorless, tasteless noble gas
Also Known AsXenon gas, Stranger gas

What is Xenon?

A noble gas with atomic number 54 and symbol Xe. Despite being a noble gas, xenon forms chemical compounds including xenon difluoride (XeF₂) and xenon tetrafluoride (XeF₄). Used in high-intensity arc lamps, strobe lights, and as an anesthetic. Its electron configuration ends in 5p⁶.

Formula & Notation

Xe

Other Names / Synonyms: Xenon gas, Stranger gas

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number 54. Group 18 (noble gases), Period 5. Electron configuration: [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p⁶. Despite being noble, xenon forms compounds: XeF₂ (linear), XeF₄ (square planar), XeO₃, XeO₄. First noble gas compound synthesized (1962 by Bartlett). Natural abundance: 0.0000087% of atmosphere. Monoisotopic mass varies across 9 stable isotopes.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point−111.75°C (161.4 K)
Boiling Point−108.12°C (165.03 K)
Density5.894 g/L at STP
Molecular Weight131.29 g/mol
AppearanceColorless, odorless, tasteless noble gas

Uses & Applications

High-intensity xenon arc lamps (cinema projectors, searchlights, flash photography). Xenon flash tubes in strobe lights. Xenon-133 and Xenon-127 as radioactive tracers in lung imaging and blood flow studies. General anesthetic (costly but safe, rapid onset/offset). Ion propulsion in spacecraft (Xenon Hall-effect thrusters). Bubble chambers in particle physics experiments. NMR spectroscopy as a chemical shift agent.

Safety Information

Xenon itself is non-toxic and physiologically inert at normal concentrations. As an asphyxiant, high concentrations displace oxygen and can cause unconsciousness. Xenon difluoride (XeF₂) is a strong oxidizer and fluorinating agent — handle with care. High-pressure xenon gas cylinders require standard compressed gas handling protocols.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Xenon
Formula Xe
CAS Number 7440-63-3
Molecular Weight 131.29 g/mol
Synonyms Xenon gas, Stranger gas

Frequently Asked Questions

A noble gas with atomic number 54 and symbol Xe. Despite being a noble gas, xenon forms chemical compounds including xenon difluoride (XeF₂) and xenon tetrafluoride (XeF₄). Used in high-intensity arc lamps, strobe lights, and as an anesthetic. Its electron configuration ends in 5p⁶.

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