Hydrogen. Atom and molecule

Would you like to know more about hydrogen, its molecule and its properties?

The online hydrogen simulations on this page will help you learn about the hydrogen molecule and some of the most important properties of this very important compound.

Hydrogen is a chemical element with an atomic number of 1, which means that it has a single proton in its nucleus and a single electron in its valence shell. In its molecular form, hydrogen is in the form of H₂, which consists of two hydrogen atoms joined by a covalent bond. It is a diatomic molecule, two atoms of the same element bonding together to form a molecule.

Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe. Under standard conditions of temperature and pressure, it is a colorless, odorless and highly flammable gas. It is highly reactive and can form bonds with many other elements, including carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and halogens.

Hydrogen is an important element in organic chemistry, as it is a key component of hydrocarbon molecules, which form the basis of fossil fuels. It is part of the water molecule (H₂O) and other chemical compounds essential to life.

In terms of physical properties, hydrogen has a very low boiling point (-252.87°C) and an even lower melting point (-259.16°C). Although it is a gas at normal temperature and pressure, it can be liquefied at extremely low temperatures and stored in liquid form for use in industrial and transportation applications.

Hydrogen is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity and has a high heat capacity. The production of hydrogen from renewable energies, such as solar and wind power, is a promising solution for reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Below are several simulations and other educational resources, which can also serve as very illustrative examples. In addition, a selection of books and courses is included to help you broaden your knowledge of this subject.

Atom
Molecule

Models of the hydrogen atom

How do scientists determine the structure of atoms, without looking at them? Test the different models by shooting light at the atom. See how the model prediction matches the experimental results.

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Hydrogen molecule

Hydrogen is the chemical element of atomic number 1, represented by the symbol H. It usually occurs in its molecular form, forming the diatomic gas H2 under normal conditions. This gas is flammable, colorless, odorless, non-metallic and insoluble in water.