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Helium
Symbol
Element
Atomic Number
2
Atomic Mass
4.002602
Element Classification
Non-Metal Noble Gas
Pierre Janssen first had evidence of helium during a solar eclipse of 1868 when he noticed a yellow line in the solar spectrum signature.
Norman Lockyer and Edward Frankland later confirmed his observations and named the element helium, Greek word 'Helios', meaning the sun.
Discovery
William Ramsay was first to isolate helium on Earth in 1895 by treating the uranium mineral cleveite with mineral acids.
If you inhale helium your voice sounds high-pitched.
Characteristics
Helium is light, odorless and colorless. It has the lowest melting point and its boiling point is close to absolute zero. Unlike any other element, Helium does not solidify but remains a liquid down to absolute zero.
Uses
Colorless gas, exhibiting a purple glow when placed in a high voltage electric field
1. for filling balloons (blimps) 2. pressurizing liquid fuel rockets 3. Mixtures of helium and oxygen are used as an artificial 'air' for divers
4. as a gas shield in the vicinity of arc welding
