Argon is an odorless, colorless, and non-toxic gas that makes up 0.93% of Earth's atmosphere. It is the third-most abundant gas in the atmosphere after nitrogen and oxygen. Humans and other animals do not absorb argon, so when we inhale air, we are inhaling argon.
What Happens to Argon Once Inhaled?
Once inhaled, argon passes through the lungs and into the bloodstream, where it is carried to the tissues. Argon is then released from the body through exhalation. Argon is only slightly soluble in water, so it is not absorbed by the body's cells. Instead, it is released back into the atmosphere when we exhale.
Where Does Argon Come From?
Argon is the most abundant noble gas in our atmosphere. It is produced naturally through the radioactive decay of potassium-40 in the Earth's crust. It is also released from volcanoes and other geological processes. Some of the argon in our atmosphere is also produced by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and industrial processes.
What Are the Benefits of Argon in the Atmosphere?
Argon is an important part of the Earth's atmosphere and helps to regulate the temperature of the planet. The presence of argon in the atmosphere also helps to reduce the amount of harmful ultraviolet radiation that reaches the surface. Finally, argon plays an important role in protecting the Earth's ozone layer, which helps to reduce the amount of ultraviolet radiation that reaches the Earth's surface.
