The Importance of Oxygen: Our Lifeline

Oxygen is a vital element for life, with the chemical symbol O and atomic number 8. It is colorless and odorless in its gaseous state and light-blue in liquid form. Discovered by Carl Wilhelm Scheele and Joseph Priestley, oxygen supports combustion and is essential for respiration and blood circulation in humans. It is used in medical treatments, space missions, and underwater exploration. Industrially, oxygen is crucial in smelting, welding, and as an oxidizer in rocket propellants. It forms part of many organic compounds and plays a significant role in combustion processes.

What is the chemical symbol and atomic number of oxygen?

How did Carl Wilhelm Scheele and Joseph Priestley contribute to the discovery of oxygen?

Describe the role of oxygen in human respiration.

Explain the importance of oxygen in medical treatments.

What are some common organic compounds that contain oxygen?