I'm a Neon Atom (Ne) With Atomic Number 10

My nucleus comprises 10 protons and 10 neutrons, surrounded by 10 electrons.

British spelling.

Please start here at the beginning. Atomic number 1

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At room temperature, my state is that of an odourless, tasteless gas.
You’ll probably know me best for my widespread use in neon signs and fluorescent lamps.
I was discovered at University College London in 1898.

Neon atoms are created under extreme conditions when massive stars reach the end of their lives and explode.
Under normal conditions, neon gas is colourless. It takes an electric current passing through the gas to produce the familiar reddish-orange glow.
Neon is the fifth most abundant element in the universe but is scarce in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing only 18 parts per million.

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I intend to give a simple description of every known atom ending with oganesson.

To be continued.

I’ll be sharing a mix of fascinating and easy-to-understand short stories about the universe and life — all right here in my publication.

You can read them for free, anytime. I hope you enjoy exploring them as much as I enjoy writing them!

Knowledge Sponge

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