Week 5 - Radon

Radon is the heaviest noble gas. It is formed during the decay of radium. It is considered a toxic chemical and is found in air and water. Second to cigarette smoke, radon is a leading cause of lung cancer with radon induced lung cancer being the 6th leading cause of cancer in the US. Radon is found as a natural emissions especially in ground rich in shale or granite. Radon is also emitted from oil and gas refineries and nuclear power plants. Radon has been used mildly as a medicine to relieve joint pain and increase energy. This practice is controversial due to the danger of being exposed to radioactivity.