The credit of discovery of Radon goes to: (a) Cavendish (b) E.E. Dorn (c) Rayleigh (d) Frankland and Lockyer

The history of chemical elements is as rich and varied as the elements themselves. Each element on the periodic table has its own unique tale of discovery, often intertwined with the history of science and technology. Like other elements, Radon's story began with curious scientists probing the secrets of nature.

Radon, identified as a noble gas, was discovered by Friedrich Ernst Dorn in 1900. He observed that radium compounds emit a radioactive gas, which he named 'radium emanation'. Later, in 1923, it was renamed 'radon' to value its place in the noble gas group. This discovery was pivotal as it expanded our understanding of radioactive elements and their properties.

Understanding the historical context of discoveries can greatly enhance students' knowledge and appreciation for the subject. Adventures such as this one into the unknown of the natural world lay the groundwork for our modern understanding of chemistry.

Noble gases make up a small but significant part of the chemical elements, known for their lack of reactivity due to their complete valence electron shells. This group includes helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, and, of course, radon. They are colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and were often overlooked in early chemical research because of their inert behavior.

Radon, specifically, is the heaviest noble gas and the only one that is radioactive. It has been used in various applications, from health treatments in the early 20th century to modern-day warning systems for predicting earthquakes. Despite its usefulness, radon poses significant health risks due to its radioactivity, which can lead to lung cancer upon prolonged exposure.

Students studying noble gases learn about fundamental chemical concepts such as electron configuration, as well as practical applications and safety considerations surrounding these unique elements.

Scientific discoveries, like the uncovering of radon by E.E. Dorn, often result from a combination of curiosity, meticulous research, and sometimes serendipity. These discoveries push the envelope of human knowledge and can have far-reaching implications across multiple disciplines.

Scientific inquiry does not occur in a vacuum; it builds on previous knowledge. The process often involves formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and rigorously analyzing data. The discovery of radon added a new dimension to our understanding of radioactive decay series and the characteristics of noble gases, influencing fields ranging from medicine to geology.

Highlighting the process behind such discoveries encourages students to appreciate the iterative nature of science. It's a journey of asking questions, testing ideas, and, most crucially, being open to unexpected outcomes that can lead to a deeper comprehension of the world around us.