Question

Argon gas is inert, so it poses no serious health risks. However, if significant amounts of radon are inhaled into the lungs, lung cancer is a possible result. Explain the health risk differences between argon gas and radon gas.

Short answer

Radon is said to be radioactive.

Step-by-step solution

Define Elements

An element is a pure material made up entirely of atoms with the same number of protons in their nuclei, as defined by chemistry. Chemical elements, unlike chemical compounds, cannot be broken down into smaller substances by chemical reactions.

Explanation of the health risk difference between argon and radon gas

Both radon (Rn) and argon (Ar) display the noble gas trait of being comparatively inert. However, unlike argon, all radon's nuclei are radioactive; therefore, breathing in its radioactive decay products could be harmful.

When inhaled, the radioactive by-products of radon decomposition can harm living things.

Radon absorbs into the lining of your lungs and emits radiation when you breathe it in.

That can harm the cells there over an extended period of time and result in lung cancer.

Therefore, radon is known to be radioactive.