Overview
Argon is a colorless, odorless noble gas that is chemically inert under most conditions and abundant in Earths atmosphere.
Properties
It has low reactivity, moderate density among noble gases and is used where an inert atmosphere is required.
Occurrence and Uses
Argon is used in welding shielding, incandescent and fluorescent lighting and as an inert gas for laboratory work.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotopes include Ar 36, Ar 38 and Ar 40; argon is nonreactive but can cause asphyxiation in confined spaces by displacing oxygen.