Comparing E942 - Nitrous oxide vs E939 - Helium
Overview
Synonyms
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Found in 170 products
Found in 1 products
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Search volume over time
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
What is nitrous oxide used for?
In foods, E942 is used as a propellant and foaming gas for aerosol whipped cream and similar products, and it helps limit oxidation by displacing oxygen; outside food, it’s also used medically for sedation and analgesia.
Why don't dentists use nitrous oxide anymore?
Many dentists still use it; where it’s reduced or discontinued, it’s usually due to practice policies, monitoring and ventilation requirements, costs, or infection-control considerations, not because it’s been broadly banned.
How does nitrous oxide work?
As a food additive, it dissolves in cream under pressure and expands into fine bubbles when released, whipping and dispensing the product while displacing oxygen to slow oxidation.
How long does nitrous oxide last?
In medical/dental use, its effects generally wear off within a few minutes after inhalation stops; in whipped cream, the gas remains in the foam for hours but gradually diffuses out.
Is nitrous oxide flammable?
No—nitrous oxide isn’t flammable, but it is a strong oxidizer that can make other materials burn faster and more intensely.
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.