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Is unhaling Sulfur Hexafluoride bad for your vocal chords? Is the same true for Helium?
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Both helium (He) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) are, essentially, inert. The sulfur and fluorine atoms in the SF6 are so tightly bound that exposure to moisture will not result in the formation of hydrofluoric acid (HF) or sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and therefore will not attack your vocal chords or mucous tissues.
That being said, great care should be taken not to inhale either He or SF6 too often (in successive breaths) because asphyxia can occur. Your body still needs oxygen (O2) to function. O2 in, carbon dioxide (CO2) out. That was why Adam, in the video clip, admonished viewers not to try what he was showing you at home. If you pay attention, you'll see that he huffs in several breaths of air after demonstrating how his voice changed with He and before inhaling the SF6. That wasn't just to clear his larynx, but also served to help oxygenate his lungs before he inhaled the SF6.
That being said, great care should be taken not to inhale either He or SF6 too often (in successive breaths) because asphyxia can occur. Your body still needs oxygen (O2) to function. O2 in, carbon dioxide (CO2) out. That was why Adam, in the video clip, admonished viewers not to try what he was showing you at home. If you pay attention, you'll see that he huffs in several breaths of air after demonstrating how his voice changed with He and before inhaling the SF6. That wasn't just to clear his larynx, but also served to help oxygenate his lungs before he inhaled the SF6.
source(s):
Advanced Chemistry Classes
Advanced Chemistry Classes
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Thanks great answer!
voted helpful: cypheron, daigakuinsei, pblasman
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