Question

Noble gases are chemically inert. Give one reason.

Answer 1

Noble gases are the group 18 elements (Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, and Radon) of the periodic table. So, they do not show any tendency to gain or lose electrons. They are the most stable elements due to this reason.

Complete step by step answer:
Chemically inert’ means the gases, which are chemically unreactive. Group 18 elements of the periodic table, the noble gases (Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, and Radon) are termed as ‘inert’. They lack participation in any chemical reactions.
Reason: These gases are termed as noble gases because they have the noble gas configuration, which means their outermost electron shells or valence shells are completely filled. They are the most stable elements due to this reason. So, they do not show any tendency to further gain or lose electrons. For the same reason of having the maximum number of valence electrons in their outer shell, they are placed separately in group 18.

Additional information: Irrespective of not participating in any reactions, inert gases have a range of uses. For example, these gases are used to form the inert atmosphere, such as for the arc welding, to protect specimens, and to prevent chemical reactions, etc. Also, Neon and Krypton are used in lamps or in headlamps. Helium is used in balloons, air tanks, etc.

Note:
In today’s research it can now be shown that these gases do react with other chemical compounds, except Helium and Neon, which are known as truly to be the inert gases. But, to drive the reactions between noble gases and other compounds, a higher amount of heat, radiation, catalysts, and pressure are needed. Also, there are so many measures to be taken to keep the newly made compound intact to prevent rapid decomposition.