When was radon discovered?
Quick Answer
Radon was identified in the early 1900s, with Ernest Rutherford and Robert B. Owens discovering radon-emanation in 1900. The element was later recognized as a noble gas.
The Full Story
Radon’s radioactive emanation was discovered in 1900 by Ernest Rutherford and Robert B. Owens, who were studying radioactive gases released by thorium. Later work identified it as a distinct element in the noble gas family. Radon is now known as a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced in the decay chains of uranium and thorium. Its discovery was significant for both chemistry and radiation science because of its health hazards and unusual origin.
Key Facts
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"The radioactive gas hiding in rock and soil"
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