Helium

Helium is a gas that is lighter than air. That is why helium balloons float up instead of falling down. You cannot see or smell helium. It is the second most common thing in the whole universe. Stars like our sun are made mostly of helium and hydrogen.

Where Helium Comes From

Helium was first found in the sun before it was found on Earth. Scientists spotted it by looking at sunlight in 1868. On Earth, helium is found underground mixed with natural gas. Workers pull it out of the ground in special places. The United States has some of the biggest helium supplies in the world.

How People Use Helium

Helium fills party balloons and huge blimps that float above stadiums. Doctors use liquid helium to keep big machines called MRI scanners cold. It also helps rockets carry people into space. Scientists use it in labs for many experiments. Helium is safer than other floating gases because it does not burn.

Fun Facts

• Helium is the only thing that never becomes a solid at normal air pressure.
• The sun makes helium by smashing hydrogen atoms together.
• Breathing too much helium can hurt you, so it is best to just float balloons with it.

Did You Know?

Helium makes your voice sound high and funny because sound travels faster through it than through regular air.