Definition of argon

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< Argolis, Gulf of

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ar·gon    (ärgn) KEY 

NOUN:
Symbol Ar

A colorless, odorless, inert gaseous element constituting approximately one percent of Earth's atmosphere, from which it is commercially obtained by fractionation for use in electric light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, and radio vacuum tubes and as an inert gas shield in arc welding. Atomic number 18; atomic weight 39.948; melting point -189.3°C; boiling point -185.9°C. See Table at element.

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ETYMOLOGY:
From Greek rgon, neuter of rgos, idle, inert : a-, without ; see a-¹ + ergon, work; see werg- in Indo-European roots