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Chapter 8: Problem 92

What factors account for the unique nature of hydrogen?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Hydrogen is unique due to its simple atomic structure (a single proton and electron), it's placement on the periodic table (group 1 but is a non-metal), and its reactivity and combination with nearly all elements to form both inorganic and organic compounds.

Step by step solution

01

Atomic Structure

Understand the atomic structure of hydrogen. Hydrogen is the first element on the periodic table with an atomic number of '1'. Its atomic structure is simple with one proton in its nucleus and one electron in its shell.
02

Unique Positioning on the Periodic Table

Relate hydrogen's uniqueness to its placement on the periodic table. Although hydrogen is part of Group 1 (alkali metals) in the periodic table, it's not a metal but a non-metal. This is attributed to its ability to gain as well as lose an electron, bringing it closer to both alkali metals and halogens in behavior.
03

Reactivity and Compounds

Note the reactivity and the compounds that hydrogen forms. Hydrogen is highly reactive due to its single electron and can combine with nearly all elements. It forms both inorganic compounds (like water) and organic compounds (like hydrocarbons), showcasing its versatility.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

A student is given samples of three elements, \(X, Y\) and \(Z\), which could be an alkali metal, a member of Group \(4 \mathrm{~A},\) and a member of Group \(5 \mathrm{~A}\). She makes the following observations: Element X has a metallic luster and conducts electricity. It reacts slowly with hydrochloric acid to produce hydrogen gas. Element \(Y\) is a light-yellow solid that does not conduct electricity. Element \(Z\) has a metallic luster and conducts electricity. When exposed to air, it slowly forms a white powder. A solution of the white powder in water is basic. What can you conclude about the elements from these observations?

As a group, the noble gases are very stable chemically (only Kr and Xe are known to form some compounds). Why?

Predict (and give balanced equations for) the reactions between each of these oxides and water: (a) \(\mathrm{Li}_{2} \mathrm{O},\) (b) \(\mathrm{CaO}\) (c) \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\).

The first and second ionization energies of \(\mathrm{K}\) are \(419 \mathrm{~kJ} / \mathrm{mol}\) and \(3052 \mathrm{~kJ} / \mathrm{mol}\), and those of \(\mathrm{Ca}\) are \(590 \mathrm{~kJ} / \mathrm{mol}\) and \(1145 \mathrm{~kJ} / \mathrm{mol}\), respectively. Compare their values and comment on the differences.

Compare the physical and chemical properties of metals and nonmetals.
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