Krypton, with the symbol Kr and atomic number 36, is a colorless, odorless, and inert noble gas. It exists in trace amounts in our atmosphere and finds applications in various fields. Notably, it fills fluorescent lamps, contributing to their energy efficiency. Interestingly, its name, derived from the Greek word for "hidden," reflects its rare presence in nature.
Krypton isn't just an element on the periodic table. It's also the fictional home planet of Superman, the iconic superhero from DC Comics. Destroyed in various narratives, Krypton serves as the origin story for Superman's extraordinary abilities and his journey to Earth.
The television series "Krypton" delves deeper into the world of Superman's ancestors. Set two centuries before his birth, the show explores the struggles and triumphs of Seg-El, Superman's grandfather, as he navigates a complex society on the brink of collapse.
Krypton holds a dual identity. In the world of science, it's a rare, noble gas used in lighting and lasers. However, in the realm of fiction, it's the legendary home planet of Superman, forever linked to the iconic superhero's origin story and serving as a symbol of a lost civilization.
Krypton's journey began in 1898 when British scientists William Ramsay and Morris Travers discovered it while studying liquid air. Hidden amongst other components, they isolated this new element, aptly named after the Greek word for "hidden." Despite its limited natural abundance, krypton found uses in diverse applications, from lighting to scientific research.
Beyond the scientific realm, Krypton holds a prominent place in pop culture. In the DC Comics universe, it's the doomed home planet of Superman, destroyed by a natural disaster. This tragic event sets the stage for Superman's arrival on Earth and fuels his determination to fight for justice. The details of Krypton's destruction and its society vary across different narratives, keeping the intrigue alive for generations of fans.
While the fictional Krypton met its demise, its story continues to unfold. The television series "Krypton" takes viewers back in time, two centuries before Superman's birth. It explores the complexities of Kryptonian society, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of Superman's ancestors as they grapple with internal conflicts and the looming threat of their planet's eventual destruction.
Krypton's primary claim to fame lies in its practical applications. It shines brightly in fluorescent lamps, enhancing their energy efficiency. Additionally, its unique properties make it valuable in high-speed photography flash lamps and certain specialized lasers. Krypton even plays a role in scientific research, finding use in particle physics and medical imaging.
Krypton's primary source is the Earth's atmosphere, where it exists in trace amounts (around 1 part per million). It can be extracted through a process called fractional distillation of liquid air, separating it from other atmospheric gases. Additionally, nuclear fission in reactors produces a specific radioactive isotope of krypton, although this is not a commercially viable source for general use.