What Are The Most Stable Elements?

The most stable group of elements are the Noble gases, which form Group VIII of the periodic table. From the top, these are helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon and radon. The elements at the top, helium, neon and argon are completely inert but the elements become radioactive at the bottom of the group. Radon is also inert but it can be harmful.

It is naturally produced by rocks under the ground and, if it seeps up into the foundations of residential houses, high levels of radon can build up. This has been linked to an increased number of lung cancer cases.

We take advantage of the non-reactivity of helium in making helium balloons (helium is much lighter than air and floats very well). We use neon in lighting, as it never burns or explodes, no matter how hot the filament of a bulb becomes.

Other non-reactive elements include the metals we use for long-lasting jewellery ~ gold, silver and platinum. These metals are very unreactive and do not tarnish or fade easily.