Question

Write symbols for all ‘inert gases'. Explain why inert gases were difficult to discover.

Answer 1

Step 1: Inert gases:

• These gases are very unreactive because of their complete octet configuration.
• It is also called ‘rare gases’ or ‘ noble gases’.

Step 2: List of ‘inert gases’:

There are seven inert gases in the period table. These are,

• Helium(He),
• Neon (Ne),
• Argon (Ar),
• Krypton (Kr)
• Xenon (Xe),
• Radon (Rd) and
• Oganesson (Og)

Step 3: Reason for difficulties in discovering the ‘inert gases’:

• These ‘inert gases’ occur in Earth's atmosphere in small amounts. Many elements are discovered using their reactions.
• But it is difficult to discover ‘inert gases’ because they are very unreactive.