Argon in Clean Air
Clean air is made up of many different components, including nitrogen, oxygen, argon and other trace gases. Argon is the third-most abundant gas found in Earth's atmosphere, and makes up approximately 1% of the air we breathe. While argon is present in clean air, it is also present in many other forms. Depending on the geographic location and the nearby sources of pollution, the amount of argon in the air can vary greatly.
Argon is a colorless, odorless, and non-flammable gas. It is a noble gas, meaning that it does not react easily with other elements. Argon is present in the Earth’s atmosphere in trace amounts, and is also found in many natural sources, such as volcanic eruptions and underground mines. It can also be found in some industrial processes, such as the production of steel and glass.
The primary source of argon in the atmosphere is the decay of uranium and thorium. These two elements are found in the Earth’s crust, and when they decay, they release argon into the atmosphere. This argon is then circulated throughout the atmosphere by air currents.
In most cases, the amount of argon in clean air is not a cause for concern. It is not toxic and does not contribute to air pollution. However, in some areas, such as industrial sites, the amount of argon in the air can be higher than normal. This is due to the release of argon from industrial processes, which can occur when using certain types of machinery or when welding. In these cases, it is important to ensure that the levels of argon in the air are kept to a safe level.
