Environtmental and Global Health

Chemical element, symbol Rn and atomic number 86. Radon gas is an emanation of radioactive decay product of radium. It is highly radioactive and decays with the emission of energetic alpha particles. It is the heaviest element of the group of noble gases, or inert, and, therefore, is characterized by its chemical inertness. All its isotopes are radioactive with short half-life.

In addition to its three natural isotopes, radon has 22 others have been synthesized by nuclear reactions artificial transmutation made in cyclotrons and linear accelerators, but none of these isotopes have a life so long as the 222Rn.

Any surface exposed to 222Rn is coated with an active deposit consists of a group of short-lived products subsidiaries. In the radiation of this deposit is active energy rays alpha, beta and gamma.The electronic configuration of radon is extremely stable and gives the chemical characteristics of elemental noble gases. Has been studied much the spectrum of radon, which is similar to other inert gases.

Environmental Effects of Radon

Radon is a radioactive compound, which is rare in nature. Most of the compounds of radon found in the environment from human activities. Radon enters the environment through soil by uranium and phosphate mines, and coal combustion.

Part of radon found in the soil will move to the surface and enter the air through evaporation. In the air, radon compounds will be flattened to dust and other particles. Radon can also be moved down on the ground and reach surface waters. However, most of the radon will remain in the soil.

Radon has a radioactive half-life of about four days, meaning that half a given amount of radon will degrade into other compounds, usually less harmful compounds, every four days.

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