The chemical symbol for helium is He. Helium is a colorless and odorless gas that belongs to the noble gases group in the periodic table. It is the second lightest and second most abundant element in the universe, primarily formed through nuclear fusion in stars. Helium has applications in various fields, including cryogenics, as a cooling medium for superconducting magnets, in balloons, and as a protective atmosphere for welding. It is non-flammable and non-reactive, making it a safe choice for many industrial and commercial uses.