Neon and Wheat: A Looming Crisis in Ukraine's Exports
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Chapter 1: The Dual Crisis of Neon and Wheat
As summer approaches, the world faces a potential shortage of two invaluable resources: Neon and Wheat, both primarily sourced from Ukraine.
Photo by Tony Reid on Unsplash
In summary, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate. If the situation remains unchanged, Egypt risks experiencing a summer devoid of wheat. More critically, the global supply of neon is at a standstill, which is concerning given its significance. This article will delve into the fascinating history of neon, from its discovery to its artistic applications.
Section 1.1: Understanding Neon
Let’s begin by exploring neon, often considered the noblest of gases, predominantly produced in Ukraine.
The March 16 earthquake in eastern Japan (2022) led to the shutdown of several power plants that serve the Tokyo area, causing an immediate reduction in electricity supply. As a result, the electricity company, along with the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, urged residents and businesses to conserve power by switching off lights and neon signs at night.
But what exactly is neon?
Neon is currently facing a global crisis due to the ramifications of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Consequently, wheat supplies in Egypt, where the author resides, are also in jeopardy. As you gaze at neon signs tonight, reflect on the story we are about to unfold.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Discovery of Neon
Neon, derived from the Greek word “neos,” meaning “new,” was identified in 1898 by Scottish chemist Sir William Ramsey and English chemist Morris Travers. This gas is found in the air.
When air is cooled to extremely low temperatures, it turns into liquid. Upon gently warming this liquefied air to minus 246.08 degrees Celsius, neon gas begins to evaporate, while nitrogen and oxygen remain in liquid form. This process outlines the extraction of neon gas.
In 1879, at just 27 years old, Lord Ramsey became a professor at the University of Bristol and was later appointed president. His discovery of neon in such circumstances is remarkable. Along with neon, he identified several other gases present in the air, earning him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1904.
Neon stands out for its unique characteristics. Unlike other gases, it does not engage in chemical reactions. Comprised of a single atom, neon is incapable of forming bonds with other molecules. Even helium (He), which shares similar noble traits, can occasionally bond, while neon remains completely inert.
In contrast, oxygen readily forms bonds with various elements, leading to phenomena like rusting in metals. Fluorine gas is even more reactive, capable of breaking down glass and platinum. Neon, however, remains unreactive, making it a stable gas in a glass tube, impervious to interaction with oxygen or fluorine.
Section 1.2: The Art of Neon
Neon possesses another intriguing property: when a glass tube filled with a thin layer of neon gas has high voltage applied, it emits a stunning light. Such tubes are known as neon lamps.
The invention of the neon tube is credited to French chemist Georges Claude around 1910. Often referred to as “the Edison of France,” his company, Claude Neon, was the first to market neon lamps. Claude also pioneered methods for mass-producing liquefied air, likely conducting this research to enhance neon production.
Neon lamps have a longer history than the light bulbs we commonly use today. While the first commercial light bulb emerged in 1881, practical versions with tungsten filaments were only developed by 1913. Although light bulbs are brighter and easier to replace, neon lamps became popular for outdoor signage due to their ability to create vibrant colors and unique shapes.
The first video titled "Spawn a Blue Betta Fish in game, win a NEON l Summer event week 4 l New Subs get free pet" showcases how to obtain a blue betta fish during a summer event in a game, emphasizing the importance of neon in gaming culture.
Neon art by Waku, Image courtesy of Bijutsu Techo
Japanese artist WAKU exemplifies the beauty of neon art. Despite the rise of newer technologies like LED and OLED, the century-old neon lamp remains cherished by artists for its distinctive glow.
Chapter 2: The Global Implications of Neon and Wheat
The second video titled "Playing Balloon Pop & Free eggs l Summer event week 3 l New Subs get free pet" highlights fun activities in a gaming environment, connecting the importance of community engagement during the summer season.
Neon lamps and signs are often collectively referred to as neon, which has become synonymous with vibrant advertising.
As we explore further, it's essential to note that neon’s primary production occurs in Ukraine. Although neon is not extracted from the earth, its production facilities are concentrated there, likely due to the low electricity costs associated with nuclear power, particularly from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
In addition to neon, Ukraine and Russia are crucial to the global supply of various essential metals, including platinum, palladium, rhodium, and nickel. Unfortunately, wheat remains the most critical concern. Although Egypt produces 9.4 million tons of wheat annually, it imports around 10 million tons, with 80% of this reliant on Ukraine and Russia.
While the neon gas essential for semiconductor production is globally available, the wheat crisis poses a significant threat. Although Egyptians have a preference for japonica rice, producing only 4.2 million tons annually, there is an opportunity for global aid through purchasing Egyptian products.
One More Thing
Thank you for engaging with this article. For those interested in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict, consider watching this insightful TED interview.