Hüdrogeeniga

Hüdrogeeniga, more commonly known as hydrogen, is the chemical element with the symbol H and atomic number 1. It is the lightest and most abundant element in the observable universe, making up about 75% of its elemental mass. Hydrogen is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and highly flammable gas at standard conditions. Its most common isotope is protium, which has one proton and no neutrons. Other isotopes include deuterium and tritium.

Hydrogen exists as a diatomic molecule, H₂, in its elemental form. It is a fundamental component of water (H₂O) and organic compounds, playing a crucial role in biochemistry and the energy of life. Industrially, hydrogen is primarily produced through steam reforming of natural gas, though other methods like electrolysis of water are also employed.

Hydrogen has numerous applications. It is used in the Haber-Bosch process to produce ammonia, a key component of fertilizers. It is also used in refining petroleum, in the production of methanol, and as a cooling agent in some power generators. In recent years, hydrogen has gained significant attention as a potential clean fuel. When used in fuel cells, its only byproduct is water, making it an environmentally attractive alternative to fossil fuels. However, challenges remain in its production, storage, and transportation for widespread adoption as a fuel.