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Helium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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helium

[ˈhiːliəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Helium is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, inert monatomic gas that heads the noble gas group in the periodic table and has the chemical symbol He and atomic number 2. It is the second lightest and second most abundant element in the observable universe, primarily formed during the Big Bang and in stars through nuclear fusion. Helium is used in various applications, including as a lifting gas in balloons, in cryogenics, and as a coolant for superconducting magnets. Due to its low boiling and melting points, helium remains in gaseous form at extremely low temperatures, making it invaluable in scientific research.

Synonyms

light gas, noble gas.

Examples of usage

  • The balloon was filled with helium.
  • Helium is used in deep-sea diving tanks.
  • Scientists rely on helium for their experiments.
  • The voice of the clown changed after inhaling helium.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Helium is the second lightest and second most abundant element in the Universe, making up about 24% of its total elemental mass.
  • It is a noble gas, which means it rarely reacts with other elements, making it useful in many applications.

Pop Culture

  • Helium gained popularity in the 20th century for creating lighter-than-air balloons, especially used in celebrations and parties.
  • In cartoons and funny videos, when someone inhales helium, their voice sounds high and squeaky, which adds humor.

Industry

  • Helium is used not just in balloons, but also in MRI machines as a coolant due to its low boiling point and ability to maintain temperature.
  • It's essential for scientific research, particularly in cryogenics, where super-cooled environments are necessary.

History

  • Before its identification on Earth, helium was discovered on the sun, demonstrating the link between stellar and terrestrial chemistry.
  • In World War II, helium played a critical role in airship operations, giving rise to its importance in aeronautics.

Origin of 'helium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'helium' comes from the Greek word 'helios', which means 'sun', because it was first discovered in the sun's spectrum.
  • It was discovered on August 18, 1868, by French astronomer Pierre Janssen during a solar eclipse.

The name 'helium' is derived from the Greek word 'helios', meaning 'sun'. The gas was first identified in the solar spectrum during a total solar eclipse in 1868 by the French astronomer Pierre Janssen and later confirmed by the English astronomer Joseph Norman Lockyer, who proposed the name helium in reference to its solar origin. The first helium on Earth was discovered in 1895 by the Scottish chemist William Ramsay when he was isolating radium from uranium ore. Helium was once elusive and was thought to originate solely from the sun until it was later found to exist in significant quantities on Earth. Its isolation and commercial production began in the early 20th century, driven by the demand for lighter-than-air balloons and later for various scientific and industrial applications.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,876 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.