The Discovery and Wonders of Krypton

To mark the anniversary of krypton's discovery on 30 May 1898, UCL Chemistry Digital Student Ambassador Mayukh writes about its unique uses across lighting, insulation and even space exploration!

As a Chemistry student at UCL, one of my first lectures gave me an unforgettable experience: I had the chance to see Sir William Ramsay's original logbook. Yes, the very logbook where the discovery of Krypton was first recorded!  This remarkable event not only deepened my appreciation for the subject but also inspired me to delve into the fascinating story of Krypton.

What Exactly is Krypton?

Krypton, symbolised as Kr on the periodic table, is one of the noble gases. It's colourless, odourless, and tasteless, residing in Group 18, the last column of the periodic table. While it might not get as much attention as its more famous cousin, Neon, Krypton has its own unique charm and a set of interesting uses.

The Journey to Krypton's Discovery

The journey to Krypton's discovery is a tale of curiosity and persistence. It all started with Sir William Ramsay at UCL, a Scottish chemist who was fascinated by the mysteries of the atmosphere. Alongside his colleague Morris Travers, Ramsay embarked on a quest to uncover the secrets of the air we breathe.

In 1898, after successfully discovering argon and helium, Ramsay, who was by then Chair of Chemistry and University College London, and Travers turned their attention to what else might be hidden in the atmosphere. They devised an elaborate process to extract gases from liquid air, painstakingly boiling off components until only a small residue remained. This residue was subjected to a spectroscope, revealing a bright green spectral line that signified the presence of a new element – Krypton. The name Krypton comes from the Greek word "kryptos," meaning hidden, a fitting tribute to its elusive nature.

What Makes Krypton Special?

Krypton may be a rare gas, making up only about 1 part per million of the Earth's atmosphere, but it has several fascinating properties that make it stand out. For one, it's highly unreactive, a trait it shares with other noble gases. This means it doesn't form compounds easily, making it a stable and reliable element for various applications. While you might not encounter Krypton in your everyday life, it has some pretty cool uses:

• Lighting: Krypton is used in some types of photographic flashes for high-speed photography. It's also found in certain types of neon lights, where it produces a bright white light.
• Lasers: Krypton fluoride lasers are a type of excimer laser used in various applications, including eye surgery and in some research laboratories.
• Insulation: In the world of energy efficiency, Krypton is used in double and triple-pane windows to improve insulation. Its low thermal conductivity helps reduce heat transfer, making buildings more energy efficient.
• Space Exploration: Believe it or not, Krypton is used as a propellant in some ion thrusters for satellites and space probes. Its inert nature makes it a safe and effective choice for long-duration space missions.

A Personal Connection

As someone who is passionate about Chemistry, seeing Ramsay's original logbook was more than just a brush with history. It was a vivid reminder of the excitement and discovery that lies at the heart of science. The careful notation of each experiment and the thrill of uncovering something new resonated deeply with me, highlighting the timeless allure of scientific exploration. From its humble presence in the atmosphere to its various modern-day applications, Krypton continues to be a symbol of scientific achievement and innovation. Whether you're gazing at a bright flash of light or marvelling at the efficiency of insulated windows, remember that a little bit of Krypton is at work, silently showcasing the wonders of chemistry.

Author: Mayukh Das
Photo Credit: UCL Creative Media Services