Atomic Number
86
Element 86
Radon (Rn)
Radon is a chemical element with symbol Rn and atomic number 86. It is a radioactive, colorless, odorless, tasteless noble gas first identified by Friedrich Ernst Dorn; later work by Ernest Rutherford and Robert B. Owens explored its properties and decay.
Atomic Mass
222 u
Category
Noble Gas
Period
6
Group
Group 18: noble gases
Phase
gas
Density
0.00973 g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 8
Atomic Structure
Protons: 86. Electrons: 86. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶
Why Radon Matters
Radon helps connect atomic number 86, noble gas behavior, period 6 trends, and electron shell structure. Its gas phase, atomic mass of 222 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Radon was discovered 1900 by Friedrich Ernst Dorn. Radon is a chemical element with symbol Rn and atomic number 86. It is a radioactive, colorless, odorless, tasteless noble gas first identified by Friedrich Ernst Dorn; later work by Ernest Rutherford and Robert B. Owens explored its properties and decay.
Safety and Handling Context
Radon has radioactive isotopes or is commonly discussed with radioactive materials. Use this page as an educational reference; real samples require qualified supervision and controlled handling.
Related Elements
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the atomic number of Radon?
- Radon has atomic number 86, which means a neutral atom has 86 protons and 86 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Radon?
- The chemical symbol for Radon is Rn.
- What category is Radon in?
- Radon is classified as a noble gas and sits in period 6 of the periodic table.
Explore Radon in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Radon to neighboring elements without losing your place.