Question

Inert gases are also known as
(A) zero-valent gases
(B) zero group elements
(C) noble gases
(D) All the above

Answer 1

In order to know what are inert gases known as, we must first have an idea about what an inert gas is. Inert gases are the chemical elements which are having a very stable configuration. That is inert gases will be having octet valence electrons in its outermost shell.

Complete Solution :
Let us have a deep understanding about the inert gases. Inert gases are the group of chemical elements which belongs to the group 18 in the periodic table. There are six inert gases present : Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon and Radon. The outer electronic configuration of the inert gases is $n{s^2}n{p^6}$. Inert gases can also be referred to as noble gases, zero-valent gases and zero group elements. They are called inert gases because they are having a completely filled valence shell, i.e. it will be having an octet configuration. Therefore, it will not easily undergo any sort of reaction.

- Let us now see some of the properties of the inert gases.
- Inert gases are colourless
- odourless
- They will have a low melting point and low boiling point.
- They have non-metallic characteristics.
- Inert gases are a poor conductor of electricity.
So, the correct answer is “Option D”.

Note: Inert gases due to their inertness can be used for various applications:
- Argon is mainly used in the welding of stainless steel, aluminium and titanium.
- Neon, argon and krypton are used in lights for producing different colour lights.
- For checking the weather of different regions, Helium balloons are used.
- Xenon and krypton are used in photographic flash units.