What is Neon as on the Periodic Table? Definition of the Neon Element A rare, inert gaseous element occurring in the atmosphere to the extent of 18 parts per million and obtained by fractional distillation of liquid air. It is colorless but glows reddish orange in an electric discharge and is used in displays and indicators. Neon is usually found in the form of a gas with molecules consisting of a single Neon atom. Neon is the second-lightest noble gas, after Helium. The Atomic Number of this element is 10 and the Element Symbol is Ne. What is Neon? Origin / Meaning of the name Neon The name 'neon' originates from the Greek word 'neos' meaning new. Neon was discovered by Sir William Ramsay and one of his students, Morris W Travers in 1898 and Neon was so called because it was newly discovered. Facts about the Discovery and History of the Neon Element Neon was discovered by the Scottish scientist Sir William Ramsay (2 October 1852 – 23 July 1916) and one of his students, Morris W Travers (1872–1961) in 1898. Sir William Ramsay (1852 - 1916) Sir William Ramsay discovered the noble gases and received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1904 "in recognition of his services in the discovery of the inert gaseous elements in air". These elements included Argon, Krypton and Xenon. Ramsay also isolated helium which had been observed in the spectrum of the sun but had not been found on earth. In 1910 Ramsay also made and characterized radon. Sir William Ramsay (1852 - 1916) What is Neon? Occurrence of the Neon Element Neon is a rare gas that is found in the Earth's atmosphere Neon is obtained by liquefaction of air and separation using fractional distillation - obtained from liquid air Abundances of the element in different environments % in Universe 0.13% % in Sun 0.1% % in Meteorites N/A % in Earth's Crust 3×10-7% % in Oceans 1.2×10-8% % in Humans N/A Associated Uses of Neon Neon lights & signs. Neon lighting was invented by the French chemist Georges Claude (1870-1960). A neon light consists of a glass tube filled with neon. An electric current is passed through the tube which causes neon atoms to break apart. The parts recombine almost immediately and they give off neon light. High-voltage indicators Gas discharge lightning arrestors |