Hydrogen

Atomic Number: 1
Symbol: H
Atomic Mass: 1.008 u
Number of Neutrons: 0
Melting Point: -259.1°C
Boiling Point: -252.9°C
Electrons per shell: 1
Ion charge: 1+
Electron configuration: 1s¹

---

Hydrogen is the first element in the periodic table and it is a gas. Therefore, it is the lightest element in the universe. Hydrogen is one of the most useful elements in life because it is the most common element in the universe, making up 75% of all matter. Most of Jupiter is made out of hydrogen. Also, hydrogen makes up the most important liquid for our planet, water. Although, hydrogen can be found in the air in very small amounts, it is mostly found in water. It has many uses by making fertilizers, and it is very important in refining metals. One of this element's most notable properties is that it is highly flamible. One of hydrogen's first uses was is in zeppilins, but after the Hindenburg disaster, hydrogen was never used in zeppilins again. Hydrogen is part of the non-metals group which include elements such as oxygen, and carbon. Henry Cavendish was the first to discover and name hydrogen in 1766. Hydrogen got its name from the Greek words "hydro," meaning water and "genes," meaning creator. Together they make "the creator of water."

Previous Element  Next Element