What Is Chemical Name For SF6?

The proper chemical name for SF6 is sulphur hexafluoride. In its gaseous form, sulphur hexafluoride is six times heavier than air and so is sometimes referred to as the 'anti-helium'.

Sulphur hexafluoride has no colour or odour, is inflammable and is non-toxic. In 2007, the UK government wanted to test how quickly poison gas would spread around the London Underground network in case of a terrorist attack, and used sulphur hexafluoride. No-one was harmed as a result of the experiment.

Uses For Sulphur Hexafluoride

Since its discovery in 1901, SF6 has been used in the electrical industry (it is a good insulator) and in medicine, where it is used as 'plug' in certain eye operations, as it disperses harmlessly into the bloodstream.

However, its most popular use is for fun experiments! As it is heavier than air and harmless to humans, it can used as 'invisible water', by filling a container with SF6 and floating paper boats upon it. It can also be inhaled to make your voice deeper, as these celebrities discover: