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Radon: meaning, definitions and examples

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radon

 

[ ˈreɪdɒn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive noble gas that occurs naturally as a decay product of uranium. It is considered a health hazard due to its radioactive properties and can accumulate in homes, posing risks of lung cancer when inhaled over prolonged periods.

Examples of usage

  • Radon testing is essential for home safety.
  • Exposure to high levels of radon can be harmful.
  • The radon level in our basement is elevated.

Translations

Translations of the word "radon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 radônio

🇮🇳 रेडॉन

🇩🇪 Radon

🇮🇩 radon

🇺🇦 радон

🇵🇱 radon

🇯🇵 ラドン

🇫🇷 radon

🇪🇸 radón

🇹🇷 radon

🇰🇷 라돈

🇸🇦 رادون

🇨🇿 radon

🇸🇰 radón

🇨🇳 氡

🇸🇮 radon

🇮🇸 radon

🇰🇿 радон

🇬🇪 რადონი

🇦🇿 radon

🇲🇽 radón

Word origin

The word 'radon' comes from the Latin word 'radius', which means ray, and it reflects the element’s radioactive nature. Radon was first identified in 1900 by German chemist Friedrich Ernst Dorn while he was studying the decay processes of radium. Initially, it was referred to as 'radium emanation' before being officially named radon in 1923. As a member of the noble gases, radon has an atomic number of 86 and is known to form from the decay of uranium and thorium, which are plentiful in many geological formations. The awareness of radon's health risks grew during the late 20th century, leading to increased regulation and testing for radon levels in buildings.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,606, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.