What element is known as potentially harmful when inhaled in certain concentrations?

Radon is a radioactive noble gas that is naturally produced from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. When radon is present in higher concentrations, particularly in enclosed spaces such as homes and buildings, it can be inhaled and pose significant health risks. The primary concern with radon exposure is its link to lung cancer, as inhaling radon decay products can lead to cellular damage in the lungs over time.

Due to its colorless, odorless nature, radon is difficult to detect without proper measurement tools, which makes it particularly hazardous in areas where it can accumulate. In various indoor environments, elevated levels of radon may go unnoticed, leading to prolonged exposure for the occupants. Consequently, understanding and mitigating radon levels in residential and occupational settings is crucial for health and safety.

Other elements and compounds, such as carbon dioxide, ozone, and methane, also have their own health implications, but radon is distinctly recognized for its radioactivity and the specific risks it poses when inhaled.