Inert Gases
Definition
Inert gases, also known as noble gases, are elements that are generally unreactive due to their full valence electron shells. They include helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon and radon.
Analogy
Think about inert gases like the cool kids at school who prefer to be alone rather than mingling with others. Just like these cool kids don't need more friends to feel complete (because they're already content), inert gases don't usually form bonds with other atoms because their outermost electron shell is already full.
Related terms
Valence Electrons: These are electrons located in an atom's outermost shell. They participate in bond formation with other atoms.
Ionization Energy: The energy required to remove an electron from a gaseous atom or ion.
Octet Rule: A rule stating that atoms tend to combine so that each atom has eight electrons in its outermost shell, thereby forming stable molecules.
"Inert Gases" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.