Difference between revisions of "Hydrogen"
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Revision as of 17:38, May 18, 2007
| Hydrogen | |
|---|---|
| Properties | |
| Atomic symbol | H |
| Atomic number | 1 |
| Classification | Gas |
| Atomic mass | 1.001 amu |
| Other Information | |
Hydrogen has the atomic symbol H and the atomic number of 1. Hydrogen is the most abundant of all the chemical elements, the universe is composed of roughly 75% hydrogen. However naturally occurring elemental hydrogen on Earth is extremely rare.
Composition of the Atom
One isotope of the hydrogen atom is made up of one proton and one electron with no neutrons. This is called protium. There is also deuterium, with one proton, one electron, and one neutron, and tritium with one proton, one electron and TWO neutrons. Tritium is radioactive.
Fuel for Vehicles
The hydrogen fuel cell is a pioneering form of alternative energy. It is very clean burning, the only by-product of its combustion is pure water. This would slow down the impact that global warming is having on the Earth. Unfortunately there are some set backs. The amount of hydrogen needed to fuel a regular sized car would be extremely large and would not be as convenient as a fuel tank is now. Hydrogen is extremely flammable and the flame is nearly invisible. The chances of a massive fatal explosion in an accident is greater than in one with gas powered vehicles.
If hydrogen could be used in cars, it would be important in establishing the hydrogen economy.
Compounds
Hydrogen can be found in both organic and inorganic compounds (for example, hydrocarbons and metal hydrides, respectively. Scientists have determined that hydrogen is the most common element in the universe. It is an important component of water.
