krypton

[ krip-ton ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. an inert, monatomic gaseous element, present in very small amounts in the atmosphere: used in high-power, tungsten-filament light bulbs. : Kr; : 83.80; : 36.

krypton

/ ˈkrɪptɒn /

noun

1. an inert gaseous element occurring in trace amounts in air and used in fluorescent lights and lasers. Symbol: Kr; atomic no: 36; atomic wt: 83.80; valency: 0; density: 3.733 kg/m³; melting pt: –157.37°C; boiling pt: –153.23±0.10°C

krypton

/ krĭp′tŏn′ /

1. A colorless, odorless element in the noble gas group. It is used in certain fluorescent lamps and photographic flash lamps. Atomic number 36; atomic weight 83.80; melting point −156.6°C; boiling point −152.30°C; density 3.73 grams per liter (0°C).
2. See Periodic Table

Word History and Origins

Origin of krypton¹

1895–1900; < Greek kryptón, neuter of kryptós hidden, secret; crypt

Word History and Origins

Origin of krypton¹

C19: from Greek, from kruptos hidden; see crypt

Example Sentences

The existing panes, rather than being ditched, were each taken out, and the gap in the double glazing was filled with an insulating gas—a mixture of argon and krypton.

From Scientific American

The scientists tested their hypothesis with lamps containing krypton chloride gas, molecules of which release UVC radiation mainly in the 222 nm range under electrical excitation.

From Scientific American

On the way down, it will take samples of the atmosphere, specifically measuring a variety of gases including argon, krypton and xenon.

From Salon

Noble gases such as xenon and krypton are byproducts of fission along with particles of cesium, strontium and other radioactive elements.

From Seattle Times

Concentrations of krypton, argon, neon and xenon — the noble gases that do not react with other elements — may provide hints about how Venus and its atmosphere formed.

From New York Times