Neon vs Lead
Elements in the periodic table have different properties. We can categorize them based on their atomic number and can group the ones with similarities. Neon and lead both are p block elements, because their last electron is filled to the p orbital.
Neon
Neon is the tenth element in the periodic table, and it is in the group 18 (Nobel gas). It has ten electrons; therefore, the electron configuration is 1s2 2s2 2p6. p orbital can only accommodate six electrons, so in helium p orbital is fully filled making neon an inert gas. Ne is the symbol of Neon, and its atomic weight is 20.17 g mol-1. Neon is an inert, colorless, gas under standard conditions. It is a highly abundant gas in the universe, but it is rare on earth. It also has a low boiling point, low density. Neon is a light gas (second lightest inert gas), and it is non toxic. Neon has three stable isotopes, among those 20Ne is the most abundant isotope. Since neon is a stable gas, it is nonreactive and doesn’t form many compounds. However, its ionic species like (NeAr)+ and (NeH)+ have been observed. Therefore, we can say that any neutral compounds of neon have not been observed yet. Neon has a unique characteristic because it glows in a reddish orange color in a vacuum discharge tube. Therefore, neon is used in neon lamps, signs, television tubes, helium-neon lasers, etc.
Lead
Lead has the symbol Pb, because of its latin name Plumbum. This is in the p block of the periodic table. It is in the carbon group and has the atomic number of 82. Electron configuration of lead is [Xe] 4f14 5d10 6s2 6p2. Since it has four electrons in the valence shell, it can form +4 oxidation states. It also shows +2 oxidation states. PbO and PbO2 are the oxides formed by the lead in different oxidation states. Lead has a bright silver color when it is freshly cut. Since it is highly reactive with oxygen in the atmosphere, the shine fades away as lead forms oxides. Lead is known as a heavy metal. It is very soft, highly malleable, and ductile. Though it is a metal, it has poor electrical conductivity. Lead powder burns with a characteristic bluish white flame. And toxic fumed are released when it is burned. Lead has many isotopes. Most of them are produced as a result of radioactive decay of heavier elements. The four isotopes of lead are 204Pb, 206Pb, 207Pb, and 208Pb. From these, 206Pb, 207Pb, and 208Pb are stable. Lead exists in nature mixed with other elements like sulphur, Zn, Cu etc. Pure lead is rarely found in nature. Galena (PbS) is the main lead mineral with a higher percentage of lead in it. Lead is corrosive resistant; therefore, it is used in building construction. Further it is used in lead- acid batteries, bullets, and as a radiation shield. Lead is known to be a toxic element. When it is accumulated in the biological systems, it can cause neurological, blood and brain diseases. They can be entered into our bodies through food and water.
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What is the difference between Neon and Lead? • Neon is a gas, and lead is a solid. • Since neon is a gas and lead is a solid, their physical and chemical properties are largely different from each other. – • Neon is inert, but lead is very reactive. • Lead forms compounds with +2 and +4 oxidation states, whereas neon doesn’t form compounds as such. • Lead is poisonous to animals when it is accumulated.
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