Xenon (Xe) — Element Properties, Uses & Facts
Overview
Xenon is a chemical element with symbol Xe and atomic number 54. It is a colorless, dense, odorless noble gas, that occurs in the Earth's atmosphere in trace amounts. Although generally unreactive, xenon can undergo a few chemical reactions such as the formation of xenon hexafluoroplatinate, the first noble gas compound to be synthesized.
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of Xenon is [Kr] 4d10 5s2 5p6, with electron shells of 2, 8, 18, 18, 8.
Physical and chemical properties
Xenon is classified as a noble gas. It has an atomic mass of 131.294 and exists as a gas at standard conditions, appearing as colorless gas, exhibiting a blue glow when placed in a high voltage electric field.
Real-world uses of Xenon
As a noble gas, Xenon is chemically inert and is primarily used in lighting, insulation, or specialized industrial and scientific applications.
Interesting facts about Xenon
- Xenon has the atomic number 54 and chemical symbol Xe.
- It belongs to period 5, group 18 of the periodic table.
- Xenon was discovered by William Ramsay.
Explore Xenon interactively
Want to compare Xenon with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Xe to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.
What is Xenon used for?
As a noble gas, Xenon is chemically inert and is primarily used in lighting, insulation, or specialized industrial and scientific applications.
What is the atomic number of Xenon?
The atomic number of Xenon is 54, meaning it has 54 protons in its nucleus.
What is the electron configuration of Xenon?
The electron configuration of Xenon is [Kr] 4d10 5s2 5p6.
Is Xenon a metal, nonmetal, or metalloid?
Xenon is classified as a noble gas.