Argon (Ar): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Argon is element 18 on the periodic table, a noble gas, so it is a nonmetal. At room temperature it is a gas. Open it in the 3D Periodic Table to spin its tile, see its electron shells and read its story.
Explore in 3DArgon quick facts
| Atomic number | 18 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Ar |
| Atomic mass | 39.948 |
| Category | Noble Gas |
| Group and period | Group 18, period 3 |
| Block | p-block |
| State at room temperature | Gas |
| Electron configuration | [Ne] 3s² 3p⁶ |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 8 |
| Discovered | 1894, Rayleigh & Ramsay |
What is argon used for?
- Welding shield gas (prevents oxidation)
- Light bulb & fluorescent lamp fill
- Wine preservation
Interesting facts about argon
- Argon makes up 0.93% of the atmosphere. More than CO₂
- The name comes from Greek "argos" meaning lazy/idle. It reacts with almost nothing
- Argon lasers can be used in eye surgery
Argon was discovered in 1894 by Rayleigh & Ramsay in Britain.
Where argon sits on the periodic table
Argon is in group 18, period 3. Tap any element to open its page.
Other noble gass
Argon questions
What is the atomic number of argon?
Argon has atomic number 18, so every argon atom has 18 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is Ar and its atomic mass is 39.948.
Is argon a metal?
Argon is a nonmetal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a noble gas, found in group 18, period 3.
What is the electron configuration of argon?
The electron configuration of argon is [Ne] 3s² 3p⁶. Its electrons sit in 3 shells: 2, 8, 8.
What is argon used for?
Argon is used for welding shield gas (prevents oxidation), light bulb & fluorescent lamp fill and wine preservation.
Who discovered argon?
Argon was discovered in 1894 by Rayleigh & Ramsay in Britain.
The 3D Periodic Table is made by Julian Neagu, a solo founder in London, as part of VisionVix Simulators. It is free to use in the browser on desktop and phone, with no sign-up.