Whether for party decorations or meteorology, helium is perhaps best known for its use in balloons. Lighter than air, it is the second most abundant element in the universe. It plays a vital role in magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). Liquid helium is used to cool superconductor coils in MRI machines. This accounts for 30% of the global demand for helium.  This Element of Surprise segment features the following experts: Anthony Lapp, Laboratory Manager / Senior Technician, Noble Gas Lab, part of the AELAMS National Lab, University of Ottawa, and David Bryce, Professor, Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa / University Research Chair in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance.

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