What does inert mean? why are noble gases inert? include an explanation of atomic structure and electrons.

Inert generally means somethings motionless or in a state of doing little or nothing. Noble gases were once called inert gases because they were thought to be completely inert—unable to form compounds. Atomic structure- The atom consists of three component parts: Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons. Electrons- a negatively charged subatomic particle. It can be either free (not attached to any atom), or bound to the nucleus of an atom. Electrons in atoms exist in spherical shells of various radii, representing energy levels. The larger the spherical shell, the higher the energy contained in the electron.

Inert means something is stable and not reactive. noble gases are elements belong in the same Group 8 of the Periodic table. examples are Helium, Argon and Neon. All group 8 elements have their outer electron shell completely filled so it is unlikely to gain or lose any electron. That makes them very stable and inert.