Hydrogen

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.

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.

Fuel for Vehicles

Hydrogen is a principal component of fuel cells, which have the potential to be a major form of alternative energy in the future. Fuel cells are very clean energy sources; the only by-products of its use are water and heat. Since no pollutants or greenhouse gasses are produced the use of fuel cells could provide cleaner air and potentially slow down global warming.

There are, however, some obstacles to overcome before hydrogen is a viable fuel source. One obstacle is that 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.