Definition: Argon in the atmosphere is the third most abundant gas in the atmosphere behind nitrogen and oxygen. Argon makes up 0.934% of the atmosphere by volume in dry air. Argon is an inert or noble gas.
Atomic Symbol: Ar
Atomic Number: 18
Discovery: Two researchers were responsible for discovering and isolating argon. Lord Rayleigh wrote a scientific paper outlining a form of chemical impurity present in air during the isolation of nitrogen. Meanwhile, Sir William Ramsay worked on an apparatus for the isolation of argon. Rayleigh and Ramsay won separate Nobel prizes for their work.
Atomic mass, atomic number, electron configuration and other detailed information on the chemistry of argon is also available from the Chemistry Guide.
Sources:
NOAA Jetstream: Atmospheric Composition
Sources:
NOAA Jetstream: Atmospheric Composition