Is hydrogen a metal, nonmetal or a metalloid?

Thread starter tin llenaresas
Start date Sep 23, 2005
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Hydrogen Metal

In summary, hydrogen is a unique element that is difficult to classify as a metal, nonmetal, or metalloid due to its properties. It can behave like a metal or nonmetal depending on the conditions. Its position on the periodic table also makes it challenging to classify as it shares properties with both alkali metals and halogens. Under extreme conditions, hydrogen can exhibit metallic properties and has various industrial uses such as in fertilizers, fuel for rockets, and fuel cells. It is also used in the production of important chemicals.

Sep 23, 2005

tin llenaresas

is hydrogen a metal, nonmetal or a metalloid?
pls answer me..tanx

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Sep 23, 2005

dextercioby

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Well, what do you think ?

Daniel.

Sep 23, 2005

Severian596

Ugh, see this thread where you asked the same question:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=90415

1. Is hydrogen a metal, nonmetal or a metalloid?

Hydrogen is not easily classified as a metal, nonmetal or metalloid because it has properties of all three categories. It is usually considered a nonmetal, but can exhibit metallic properties under certain conditions.

2. What are the properties of hydrogen that make it difficult to classify?

Hydrogen is a highly reactive element with low atomic mass and a single valence electron. These properties make it difficult to classify because it can behave like a metal by losing its electron, or like a nonmetal by gaining an electron.

3. How does hydrogen's position on the periodic table affect its classification?

Hydrogen's position on the periodic table, in the first row above the alkali metals, also makes it difficult to classify. It shares some properties with both the alkali metals and the halogens, which are on opposite sides of the table.

4. Can hydrogen ever exhibit metallic properties?

Yes, under extreme pressure and high temperatures, hydrogen can become metallic and conduct electricity. This is known as metallic hydrogen and is theorized to exist in the core of gas giant planets like Jupiter.

5. How is hydrogen used in industry and technology?

Hydrogen is used in various industries for its reactivity and low atomic mass. It is used in the production of fertilizers, as a fuel for rockets and in fuel cells for powering vehicles. It is also used in the production of ammonia, methanol, and other important chemicals.