Noble Gases

Location on the Periodic Table

The noble gases, also known as the inert gases, are located in Group VIII of the periodic table. Group VIII is sometimes called Group O.

Properties

The noble gases are relatively nonreactive. This is because they have a complete valence shell. They have little tendency to gain or lose electrons. The noble gases have high ionization energies and negligible electronegativities. The noble gases have low boiling points and are all gases at room temperature.

Summary of Common Properties

• Fairly nonreactive
• Complete valence shell
• High ionization energies
• Very low electronegativities
• Low boiling points (all gases at room temperature)