Oxygen
Oxygen is the eighth element in the periodic table and is a nonmetal. It is essential for life on Earth, as it is required for respiration and is a major component of water.
Atomic Structure
Atomic Information
| Property |
Value |
| Atomic Number |
8 |
| Symbol |
O |
| Atomic Mass |
15.999 u |
| Electron Configuration |
1s2 2s2 2p4 |
| State at Room Temperature |
Gas |
Interesting Facts About Oxygen
- Oxygen makes up about 21% of the Earth's atmosphere.
- It is the third most abundant element in the universe by mass.
- Oxygen is highly reactive and forms oxides with almost all elements.
- It exists in several allotropes, including O2 (dioxygen) and O3 (ozone).
- It is essential for combustion and cellular respiration.
Uses of Oxygen
- Used in medical applications for oxygen therapy.
- Essential in steelmaking and metal fabrication industries.
- Rocket propulsion uses liquid oxygen as an oxidizer.
- Plays a vital role in wastewater treatment processes.