Radon

In a previous post about the Deer Creek Missile Silo I wanted to know what radon was. So here is the answer:


The chemical element of atomic number 86.
A rare radioactive gas belonging to the noble gas series.

Here is more info on it:

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas. It forms naturally from the decay of radioactive elements, such as uranium, which are found at different levels in soil and rock throughout the world. Radon gas in the soil and rock can move into the air and into ground water and surface water. For both adults and children, most exposure to radon comes from being indoors in homes, commercial buildings, schools, and other places. The levels of radon in homes and other buildings depend on the characteristics of the rock and soil in the area. As a result, radon levels vary greatly in different parts of the United States, even within neighborhoods. Elevated radon levels have been found in every state.
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/othercarcinogens/pollution/radon