The Elements: Oxygen

Oxygen is a vital element for life, making up a significant part of the human body and being essential for respiration in plants and animals. It is odorless, tasteless, and colorless as a gas, and pale blue as a liquid. Fish utilize dissolved oxygen in water. Industrially, oxygen is used in welding, and medically, it treats conditions like pneumonia. It is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust.

What are the characteristics of oxygen as a gas?

How do plants and animals utilize oxygen?

In what industrial processes is oxygen commonly used?

What medical conditions can oxygen be used to treat?

Why is oxygen considered essential for life?