h7h5

H7h5 is a chess move referring to the Black pawn moving from the h7 square to h5, a two-square advance on its first move. In long or coordinate algebraic notation, it is written as h7h5; in standard short algebraic notation, Black’s reply would typically be recorded simply as h5.

The move serves as a flank pawn thrust that gains space on the kingside and can influence the plans of both sides. By advancing to h5, Black may prepare a later h4-h5 push or support a pawn storm against White’s king or queen-side development. It also makes possible the continuation of pressure along the h-file if Black develops pieces to support a kingside attack. However, pushing the pawn two squares weakens the g6 and h6 squares and creates a potential target for White to attack.

En passant rules apply to h7h5. If White has a pawn on g5 (or, less commonly, on another adjacent file at the moment), White can capture en passant on h6, removing the pawn that moved to h5 as if it had only advanced one square. This intricacy is a notable tactical consideration when employing a two-square pawn advance like h7h5.

Usage and context: h7h5 appears in various openings and middlegame plans as a flexible flank push rather than a developmental move. It is more common in openings or lines that aim for a kingside space advantage or a rapid pawn storm, and its effectiveness depends on the broader strategic setup and how Black supports the pawn advance.

See also: chess notation, two-square pawn advance, en passant.