October 31 - November 3, 2004
Element of the Day
Wednesday, October 6
Name
Origin: Helium, from the Greek word "helios" meaning
"sun", is a non-metallic, colorless gas. It is a "Noble"
gas, unreactive, and odorless. Helium is the second most abundant element in the
universe after hydrogen. Doubly ionized helium particles are known as a
particles.
Discovered by: Sir William Ramsay, London, England, 1895.
Uses: Used in lighter than air balloons, inherently safer than hydrogen -Speaking after inhaling helium results in a high-pitched, squeaky voice.