Figure 1 shows a high-altitude meteorological research balloon, filled with helium, designed to float high in the atmosphere.
Table 1 shows the reactivity and density, at room temperature and pressure, of helium, hydrogen, and argon.
Table 1
| Gas | Reactivity | Density at room temperature and pressure (g dm−3\text{g dm}^{-3}g dm−3) |
|---|---|---|
| Helium | Unreactive | 0.18 |
| Hydrogen | Highly flammable | 0.09 |
| Argon | Unreactive | 1.78 |
The density of air under these same conditions is 1.20 g dm-3.
Explain why hydrogen and why argon are not suitable for use in these research balloons.
Group 0 Questions
Practise Edexcel GCSE Chemistry Group 0 with exam-style questions for Foundation and Higher tier. 30 questions, matched to the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) specification and written in Paper 1 and Paper 2 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.