R

Radon

IUPAC: Radon

Rn Elements CAS 10043-92-2
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationRn
CAS Number10043-92-2
Molecular Weight222.0
Melting Point-71.0
Boiling Point-61.8
Density0.00973
Solubility9.59 mg/L at 0 C
AppearanceColourless, odourless radioactive noble gas
Also Known AsRn, radon gas
CategoryElements

What is Radon?

Radon is a colourless, odourless, radioactive noble gas, atomic number 86. The heaviest noble gas. Produced by radioactive decay of radium. Second leading cause of lung cancer (after smoking) due to inhalation of radon decay products. Accumulates in buildings from ground.

Formula & Notation

Rn

IUPAC Name: Radon

Other Names / Synonyms: Rn, radon gas

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 86. Atomic mass: (222) g/mol. Period 6, Group 18 (noble gas). Boiling point: -61.8 C. Melting point: -71 C. Density: 9.73 g/L (heaviest natural gas). All isotopes radioactive. Rn-222: t1/2 = 3.82 days (alpha emitter). Rn-219, Rn-220 shorter-lived.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point-71.0
Boiling Point-61.8
Density0.00973
Molecular Weight222.0
Solubility9.59 mg/L at 0 C
AppearanceColourless, odourless radioactive noble gas

Uses & Applications

Radiation hazard assessment - no beneficial industrial uses. Radon mapping and geological surveys. Historical: radon spas (used medicinally - now considered hazardous). Research into noble gas chemistry.

Safety Information

Radioactive - second leading cause of lung cancer in many countries (after smoking). Rn-222 and decay products (Po-218, Pb-214, Bi-214, Po-214) alpha/beta/gamma emitters deposited in lungs. WHO guideline: 100 Bq/m3 indoor. Basement radon mitigation required in high-radon areas.

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

Key Facts

Term Radon
Formula Rn
CAS Number 10043-92-2
Molecular Weight 222.0
Category Elements
Synonyms Rn, radon gas

Frequently Asked Questions

Radon is a colourless, odourless, radioactive noble gas, atomic number 86. The heaviest noble gas. Produced by radioactive decay of radium. Second leading cause of lung cancer (after smoking) due to inhalation of radon decay products. Accumulates in buildings from ground.

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