Properties of Oxygen (O₂)

Oxygen is a fascinating element with distinct physical and chemical properties. These properties make it essential for life and many industrial processes.

• Physical State: Colorless, odorless gas at room temperature. Can be liquefied (pale blue) and solidified.
• Density: Slightly denser than air. This means an oxygen-filled balloon might sink or float similarly to an air-filled one, depending on temperature and pressure.
• Solubility: Sparingly soluble in water, but enough to support aquatic life.
• Combustion: Does not burn itself, but actively supports combustion. Things burn much more vigorously in pure oxygen.
• Reactivity: Highly reactive non-metal, forming oxides with most elements. This process is called oxidation (e.g., rusting of iron).

The visualizer on the right demonstrates these properties interactively!