Hydrogen (H)
| Atomic Number | 1 |
|---|---|
| Atomic Mass | 1.008 u |
| Category | Diatomic nonmetal |
| Electron Config | 1s¹ |
| Appearance | colorless gas |
| Density (STP) | 0.0899 g/L |
| Melting Point | 13.99 K |
| Boiling Point | 20.271 K |
| Electronegativity | 2.2 (Pauling) |
| Ionization Energy | 1312 kJ/mol |
| Atomic Radius | 25 pm |
| Crystal Structure | Simple Hexagonal |
| Discovered By | Henry Cavendish (1766) |
Brief Introduction
Hydrogen (H) is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe, existing as a colorless, odorless diatomic gas at standard conditions. It is highly flammable and plays a crucial role in energy, chemical manufacturing, and biological processes. Key details about Hydrogen (H) are as follows:
Uses: Widely used in ammonia production (Haber process), petroleum refining, methanol synthesis, and as a clean fuel in hydrogen fuel cells. Also used in welding and as a reducing agent in metallurgy.
Production/Extraction: Primarily produced through steam methane reforming (SMR) of natural gas, electrolysis of water, and as a byproduct of industrial processes. Green hydrogen production via renewable-powered electrolysis is growing.
History: First identified as a distinct element by Henry Cavendish in 1766, though not recognized as an element until Antoine Lavoisier named it "hydrogen" (Greek for "water-former") in 1783.
Health Effects & Safety: Non-toxic but highly flammable and explosive when mixed with air (2-75% concentration). Can cause asphyxiation in confined spaces by displacing oxygen.
Price/Market: Price varies significantly by production method—gray hydrogen (from fossil fuels) is cheapest, while green hydrogen is more expensive but growing due to decarbonization efforts.
Properties: Lowest density of all elements, burns with an almost invisible flame, has three isotopes (protium, deuterium, tritium), and forms more compounds than any other element.