Neon is a chemical element with symbol Ne and atomic number 10. It is in group 18 (noble gases) of the periodic table. Neon is a colorless, odorless, inert monatomic gas under standard conditions, with about two-thirds the density of air.
Three reasons Neon stands out
- 1
Produces a distinctive red-orange glow.
- 2
It is the fifth most abundant element in the entire universe.
- 3
Despite its fame in signs, it was only discovered on Earth in 1898.
The true color of a neon sign
Excited neon atoms emit an unmistakable red-orange light. Many signs casually called “neon” use other gases or phosphor coatings for different colors, but genuine neon needs no such disguise. The element was separated from liquefied air in 1898, revealing a rare earthly gas with a bright electrical signature.