Hydrogen

Hydrogen - An Overview

Hydrogen is the first element on the periodic table and is denoted by the symbol H.
It is a non-metal with the atomic number 1 and atomic mass 1.008.
It is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe.
Hydrogen exists as diatomic molecules (H2) in its natural state.
It is colourless, odourless and tasteless in its gaseous state.

Properties of Hydrogen

Hydrogen has a very low density, it is fourteen times lighter than air.
It has a very low boiling and melting point.
Hydrogen is highly flammable and burns with a pale blue flame.
It is an excellent energy carrier because when it burns, it combines with oxygen to form water, releasing a lot of energy in the process.

Isotopes of Hydrogen

There are three isotopes of hydrogen: Protium (H), Deuterium (D) and Tritium (T).
Protium, the most common isotope, has one proton and no neutrons.
Deuterium has one proton and one neutron.
Tritium has one proton and two neutrons and is radioactive.

Use of Hydrogen

Hydrogen is used in the Haber process to manufacture ammonia.
It is used as a fuel in rockets.
In the petroleum industry, hydrogen is used to break down crude oil in the process of refining.
Hydrogen is used in the production of methanol and hydrochloric acid.
It can also be used in fuel cells to generate electricity.

Safety Aspects

Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable and can ignite easily in air causing explosions.
Leaking hydrogen gas can spontaneously catch on fire in the presence of air.
Hydrogen gas is incompatible with many materials and caution is needed when storing and transporting.

Advantages and Limitations

Hydrogen as a fuel source has the advantage that when it burns, it only forms water so it does not contribute to air pollution or global warming.
However, the production of hydrogen gas often involves fossil fuels which does contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Due to its low density, storing hydrogen efficiently is challenging and requires high pressures, very low temperatures or chemical reactions.