describe why chemist might sometimes store reactive chemicals in argon,Ar.
Some reactive chemicals will react with any gas above then other than the inert gases. Argon is the most available inert gas. (It is 0.9% of the atmosphere)
A chemist might choose to store reactive chemicals in argon (Ar) for several reasons. Argon is a colorless, odorless, and unreactive gas, which makes it an ideal choice for creating an inert environment for storing reactive chemicals. Here's why:
1. Inertness: Argon is a noble gas, meaning it is highly stable and unreactive under normal conditions. It does not readily participate in chemical reactions, making it an excellent choice for preventing reactive chemicals from undergoing unwanted reactions, such as oxidation or degradation.
2. Chemical Stability: Reactive chemicals can often decompose or react with moisture or atmospheric gases. By storing them in an argon atmosphere, chemists can minimize exposure to oxygen and moisture, providing a stable environment that helps preserve the integrity of the chemicals.
3. Preventing Contamination: Argon is chemically inert, meaning it does not react with other substances. This property ensures that no undesired reactions occur between the stored chemicals and the atmosphere, avoiding contamination or degradation of the chemicals.
4. Oxygen and Moisture Exclusion: Argon is denser than air, allowing it to form a protective layer that isolates the stored chemicals from atmospheric oxygen and moisture. This helps prevent oxidation and moisture-induced reactions, which can lead to the deterioration of various chemical compounds.
To store reactive chemicals in argon, chemists typically employ specialized techniques, such as a glove box or a sealed container purged with argon gas. These methods ensure the desired inert environment is maintained, minimizing the risk of chemical reactions and preserving the quality of the stored substances.