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Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 08/21/2025

Is Dry Ice Dangerous?

Yes, dry ice is dangerous and poses several risks, including: With temperatures of -109°F (-78.5°C), dry ice can cause immediate tissue damage upon contact while releasing CO₂ gas that displaces oxygen in enclosed spaces. In this guide, we’ll explore the main hazards of dry ice and examine real-world incidents that highlight these dangers. We’ll also …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 08/20/2025

Is Xenon a Noble Gas?

Yes, xenon is a noble gas belonging to Group 18 of the periodic table, alongside helium, neon, argon, krypton, and radon. This classification is not merely academic – it has significant implications for industrial applications, medical uses, and specialized technologies where xenon’s unique properties are highly beneficial. In this guide, you’ll learn: The Noble Gas …

Lawrence Haynes | 6 minutes | 08/19/2025

How Is CO₂ Used in Cell Culture?

CO₂ is used for maintaining pH balance in cell culture media through the CO₂-bicarbonate buffer system, which keeps cells viable and healthy. This controlled environment also regulates temperature and humidity while supporting proper cellular metabolism. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical biochemical mechanisms behind CO₂ use in cell culture. We’ll also discuss optimal concentration …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 08/19/2025

Why Are Noble Gases Unreactive?

Noble gases are unreactive because their outer electron shells are completely filled, making them chemically stable. This full valence shell prevents them from forming bonds with other atoms.  In this guide, we’ll explore the fundamental reasons behind noble gas stability. We’ll examine the energy barriers that prevent reactions and discuss why some heavier noble gases …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 06/19/2025

What Is Liquid Nitrogen Used For?

Liquid nitrogen is used in cryogenic applications including medical procedures, food preservation, industrial processes, and scientific research. It has become essential across industries because of its inert properties and ability to rapidly freeze materials.  In this guide, we’ll explore the most common applications of liquid nitrogen in different sectors. You’ll learn why it remains a …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/18/2025

Is Hydrogen Gas Flammable?

Hydrogen gas is highly flammable – it has an exceptionally wide flammability range of 4-74% concentration in air, which makes it one of the most combustible industrial gases available. In this guide, we’ll explore hydrogen’s properties that contribute to its flammability. We’ll also explain how its combustion properties compare to other common gases and discuss …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/18/2025

Why Is Nitrogen Added to Crops?

Nitrogen is added to crops to enhance plant growth, increase yields, and improve crop quality by supporting vital biological functions like protein synthesis and photosynthesis. Without adequate nitrogen, plants develop stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and significantly reduced harvests. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical roles nitrogen plays in agriculture. You’ll learn how it benefits …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/17/2025

What Is Compressed Nitrogen Used For?

Compressed nitrogen is used in industries for purging pipelines, inflating aircraft and vehicle tires, pressurizing systems, and preserving perishable products. It’s also essential in laboratories for sample preparation and in manufacturing for creating inert atmospheres during chemical processes. In this guide, we’ll explore the major applications of compressed nitrogen across sectors, from food preservation to …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 06/16/2025

How to Measure Carbonation in Soda

Carbonation in soda can be measured using several methods, including: In this guide, we’ll explore the most reliable techniques for measuring carbonation levels, from simple DIY approaches to using professional-grade tools popular in the beverage industry. WestAir supplies gases for beverage carbonation across California and Arizona. Understanding Carbonation Basics Carbonation is the dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) gas …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/16/2025

How Much Nitrogen Does Corn Need?

Corn requires about one pound of nitrogen for each bushel of expected yield. For example, a field targeting 200 bushels per acre would need approximately 200 pounds of nitrogen per acre (adjusted for soil conditions and environmental factors). In this guide, we’ll explore this reference point in more detail and cover the key aspects of …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/12/2025

Is Nitrogen Explosive?

Pure nitrogen gas (N₂) is not explosive. It’s an inert gas that makes up about 78% of Earth’s atmosphere and is valued for its non-reactive properties. Still, certain nitrogen-containing compounds can be highly explosive under specific conditions. In this guide, we’ll explore the nature of nitrogen gas and what makes some nitrogen compounds explosive. You’ll …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 06/12/2025

Why Is Helium So Expensive?

Discover how helium extraction impacts its price and availability. Learn about the complex process and market dynamics affecting this crucial gas.

Nick Vasco | 7 minutes | 06/12/2025

What Is the Best Gas for Welding?

Discover the best gas for welding - Argon/CO2 mix for MIG and pure gases for specialized tasks. Find out how to choose the right gas for your project.

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/11/2025

Is Nitrogen Toxic?

Pure nitrogen gas (N₂) is not inherently toxic, but it can be dangerous due to asphyxiation risks and potentially harmful nitrogen-containing compounds that can react with different substances. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical safety considerations for nitrogen in industrial applications. You’ll learn when it becomes hazardous and how proper handling ensures worker safety. …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/11/2025

Is Nitrogen Combustible?

Nitrogen is not combustible. As an inert gas, nitrogen neither burns nor supports combustion under normal conditions. This property makes it invaluable for industrial applications that involve preventing fires and explosions. In this guide, we’ll explore why nitrogen doesn’t burn. You’ll also see how its non-combustible nature benefits many industries and discover the safety precautions …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/09/2025

Is Nitrogen Dangerous?

Yes, nitrogen can be dangerous – while it’s non-toxic and non-flammable, it presents serious hazards like asphyxiation and pressure-related risks, particularly in industrial settings. In this guide, we’ll explore the key dangers associated with nitrogen. We’ll also cover the key safety protocols to prevent accidents and important considerations for users who handle this common industrial …