Question

why is argon used in a light bulb

Answer 1

The element of a bulb, which is a metal wire, is heated to a very high temperature so that it glows and emits light. At such high temperature, if the bulb is filled with air containing oxygen, the element would quickly react with oxygen in the air and burn out.

Inert (Nobel gases) are used instead of air because they do not readily react and so the element remains intact for longer.


Argon is a noble/inert gas and hence nonreactive. Argon provides an inert atmosphere so that the wire remains as it is even at very high temperatures. Thus the life of the bulb is increased manifold.