If it wasn't for the recent spate of evil clown sightings the Clown Association of America would be feeling a little less on edge now that Tanzania has recently reported discovering vast deposits of helium. Up until recently dire warnings about the scarcity of helium reserves were pushing the price of this commodity up in step with the angst felt by those who depend on its supply. This houseword gas became notorious after the Heidenburg zep blew up way back in 1936. Germany didn't have helium and the U.S. didn't want to sell the Nazis a key strategic resource so they had to make do with all-too-flammable hydrogen. Scorched to metal bracing in a matter of seconds, it was the first and most dramatic tragedy to be caught live on camera. That was the end of the zeppelin age. And all that helium? Yeah, it ended up being put to use puffing up latex poodles at birthday parties for the next few decades.

Of all the pure gases helium has the least color when ionized through high voltage discharge, appearing like a grayish cloud with perhaps just a hint of blue or pink. Well, at least you can suck it in and make funny voices!

Note additional options for this element on the Ampules section

CAS 7440-59-7