Little Known Facts About Neon

While many people are familiar with neon signs and their vibrant glow, there’s so much more to this noble gas than meets the eye. These are fascinating facts about neon.

Neon Facts

Neon’s Name is Greek

Neon was discovered in 1898 by the British chemists Sir William Ramsay and Morris Travers. They isolated it from liquid air, making it the second noble gas to be discovered after argon. The name ‘neon’ comes from the Greek word ‘neos,’ meaning ‘new,’ reflecting its status as a newly discovered element at the time.

Neon is Rare on Earth

Despite being the fifth most abundant element in the universe, neon is quite rare on Earth. It makes up about 0.0018% of the Earth’s atmosphere, which is a minuscule amount compared to other gases like nitrogen and oxygen. This rarity is one reason why neon is often considered a luxury in various applications.

Neon’s Colorful Glow Comes from Electric Currents

When an electric current passes through neon gas, it emits a bright reddish-orange glow. This phenomenon occurs because the gas becomes ionized, and as the ions return to their neutral state, they release energy in the form of light. Interestingly, the color can change depending on the gas mixture; for example, adding a small amount of mercury can produce a blue hue.

Neon Has Diverse Applications

While neon is best known for its use in neon signs, it has several other applications. It is used in high-voltage indicators, vacuum tubes, and even in some types of lasers. Neon is also utilized in the production of high-performance plasma screens and as a cryogenic refrigerant. Neon has greater cryogenic refrigerant properties than helium by 40 times.

Neon is Used in Astronomy

Neon also plays a significant role in astronomy, primarily in the study of stellar atmospheres and the composition of celestial bodies. Neon is often found in the spectra of stars, where it can be identified through its distinct emission lines. Astronomers utilize neon to understand the physical conditions and processes occurring in stars, as its presence can indicate specific temperature and density conditions.

Neon is Inert

Neon is chemically inert, meaning it does not readily react with other elements. This property makes it an ideal candidate for use in various applications where stability is crucial. In the atmosphere, neon does not contribute to any chemical reactions, which is why it remains in its gaseous form.

Neon Can Be Expensive

Due to its rarity and the complex process required to extract it from the atmosphere, neon can be quite expensive. The cost of neon has fluctuated over the years, especially with the rise of neon sign popularity. In recent years, the price has increased significantly, making it a valuable commodity in the gas market.

Neon is Used in Art

Neon has transcended its practical applications to become a medium for artistic expression. Artists around the world have embraced neon lights to create stunning installations and sculptures. The vibrant colors and unique glow of neon have made it a popular choice for contemporary art, adding a modern twist to traditional forms.

Neon may be a small and rare element, but its impact on our world is anything but insignificant. From its discovery to its applications in art and science, neon continues to captivate and inspire. The next time you see a neon sign glowing in the night, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating science and history behind this noble gas.

Neon Supplier in the Rocky Mountain Region

This rare gas excels in lighting, cryogenic preservation, and various unique applications. Rocky Mountain Air supplies neon, krypton, and xenon to the Rocky Mountain region in our five operating states. We offer both high-purity cylinders and mixtures to serve a multitude of industries, from lighting to automotive, to science. If you are interested in partnering with RMA as your rare gas and neon supplier, please contact your local branch to speak to a representative today. We look forward to serving you with flawless dependability!