Non-metals

• • Contrast to the reactive Group 7 halogens, Group 0 elements are ver unreactive (inert) - called noble gases - all are colourless and odourless gases in varying amounts in Earth‘s atmosphere (argon most abundant).
• Chlorine

  • Properties - toxic, kills bacteria, greenish yellow gas which attacks respiratory systems.
  • Uses - sterilise water supplies (safe drinking water) and swimming pools, cleaning supplies (bleaches)
• Iodine

  • Properties - toxic, kills bacteria, bluish black lustrous (shiny) solid - sublimes (solid to gas) at room temperature, purple gas’s with irritating odour.
  • Uses - externally as disinfectant for wounds (antiseptic), internally in medicine, in table salt.
• Helium

  • Properties - very unreactive , very low density, colourless, odourless, gas.
  • Uses - balloons, for diving (artificial atmosphere).
• Neon

  • Properties - glows when electricity is passed through it, colourless, inert gas.
  • Uses - advertising signs, has lasers (with helium).
• Argon

  • Properties - very unreactive, colourless, inert gas, odourless.
  • Uses - Electric light bulbs, fluorescent light, glow tubes, welding.
• Group 0 elements are unreactive as outer shell is full so no reaction needs to take place, as elements don’t need to gain or lose any electrons.