Comparing E939 - Helium vs E941 - Nitrogen
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Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Where does helium come from?
On Earth it’s produced by the radioactive decay of uranium and thorium and is commercially extracted from certain natural gas fields by cryogenic separation.
Is helium flammable?
No—helium is non-flammable and chemically inert.
How long do helium balloons last?
Typical latex helium balloons float for about 8–12 hours (longer if treated), while foil/Mylar balloons often last 3–7 days or more depending on size and temperature.
How many valence electrons does helium have?
Two; its 1s shell is full, which is why helium is very inert.
What is helium used for?
As E939 it’s used as an inert packaging gas to displace oxygen and protect foods; more broadly, helium is used for lifting balloons, cryogenics (e.g., MRI), leak detection, pressurizing, and as a shielding gas in welding.
How many valence electrons does nitrogen have?
Five; a nitrogen atom has 5 valence electrons (2s2 2p3).
What is nitrogen fixation?
Nitrogen fixation is the conversion of atmospheric N2 (E941) into biologically available forms like ammonia by microbes, lightning, or the industrial Haber–Bosch process.
What is nitrogen used for?
In foods, E941 is used as an inert propellant and packaging gas to displace oxygen, prevent oxidation, and extend shelf life. Liquid nitrogen is also used for rapid freezing and to create fine bubbles/creamy textures in beverages (e.g., nitro coffee or beer).
Is nitrogen a greenhouse gas?
No—diatomic nitrogen (N2, E941) is not a greenhouse gas because it does not absorb infrared radiation; nitrous oxide (N2O, E942) is.
What is the nitrogen cycle?
The nitrogen cycle is the movement of nitrogen among the atmosphere, soils, water, and living organisms. It includes fixation of N2 (E941) into reactive forms, biological uptake, and return to N2 via processes like denitrification.