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Understanding the element
Radon (Rn) is chemical element 86. It belongs to the noble gases, and its reference state at room temperature is a gas. Those basic facts are a useful starting point for its chemistry and applications.
Where do we encounter it?
In practice, it turns up most often in geology, health and scientific research.
geologyhealthscientific research
Standard atomic weightNo standard atomic weight
What its position in the table tells us
Radon sits in period 6, group 18 and the P block. That location is useful because neighbouring elements often share trends in valence electrons, oxidation states and bonding behaviour.
Worth remembering
Radon is radioactive, so its chemistry cannot be separated from nuclear physics and radiation safety
Radon is radioactive, so its chemistry cannot be separated from nuclear physics and radiation safety