Neon (Ne)
Noble gas · p-block · period 2 · group 18
Colourless gas that glows bright orange-red in a discharge tube.
Neon (symbol Ne) is chemical element number 10, a noble gas in group 18, period 2 of the periodic table. Its standard atomic weight is 20.180 and its electron configuration is [He] 2s2 2p6. At room temperature it is a gas. Its name is Greek for 'new'.
Properties
| Atomic number | 10 |
|---|---|
| Atomic mass | 20.180 |
| Category | Noble gas |
| Block | p-block |
| Group · Period | 18 · 2 |
| Electron configuration | [He] 2s2 2p6 |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8 |
| State at 25 °C | gas |
| Melting point | 24.56 K |
| Boiling point | 27.07 K |
| Density | 0.9002 g/L |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | — |
| Radioactive | No |
| Origin | primordial |
| Discovered | 1898 · Ramsay & Travers |
Key facts about Neon
- Its name is Greek for 'new'.
- Completely inert — it forms no ordinary chemical compounds.
- The classic red-orange 'neon sign' colour; other tube colours use different gases.
- Rare on Earth but the fifth most abundant element in the universe.
What Neon is used for
Neon signs and lighting, high-voltage indicators, cryogenic refrigerant, lasers.
Where it sits in the periodic table
Neon is in group 18, period 2, of the p-block. Its electron configuration [He] 2s2 2p6 means its outermost shell holds 8 electrons, which is what places it here and explains much of its chemistry. See Neon on the interactive table →
Neon — frequently asked questions
What is Neon used for?
Neon signs and lighting, high-voltage indicators, cryogenic refrigerant, lasers.
Is Neon radioactive?
No. Neon has at least one stable isotope and is not radioactive.
What is the electron configuration of Neon?
Neon has the electron configuration [He] 2s2 2p6, which is 2, 8 electrons per shell.
What group and period is Neon in?
Neon is in group 18, period 2, in the p-block. Its outer shell holds 8 electrons.
Who discovered Neon?
Neon was discovered in 1898 by Ramsay & Travers.