Hydrogen: meaning, definitions and examples

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hydrogen

 

[ ˈhaɪdrədʒən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe, typically found in the form of H2 gas. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Hydrogen is used in various industries, such as the production of ammonia and petroleum refining.

Synonyms

H.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hydrogen

Use this term when discussing chemistry, science, or general contexts where the full name of the element is appropriate.

  • Hydrogen is the lightest element on the periodic table.
  • The compound contains two atoms of hydrogen.
H

This abbreviation is used primarily in scientific, technical, or academic contexts where shorthand notation is standard.

  • In the chemical equation, H2O represents water.
  • The periodic table lists H as the symbol for hydrogen.

Examples of usage

  • Hydrogen fuel cells are considered a clean energy source.
  • The Hindenburg airship used hydrogen for buoyancy.
  • Hydrogen is essential for the synthesis of many important chemicals.
Context #2 | Noun

fuel source

Hydrogen is often touted as a potential alternative fuel source due to its high energy content and environmental benefits. It can be used in fuel cells to generate electricity and power vehicles.

Synonyms

H2.

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Word Description / Examples
hydrogen

This word is often used in general conversations and educational settings to refer to the chemical element with the symbol H and atomic number 1.

  • Water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen.
  • Hydrogen is the lightest element in the periodic table.
H2

This is the molecular form of hydrogen and is commonly used in scientific contexts or industries dealing with hydrogen gas.

  • H2 can be used as a clean fuel alternative.
  • The reaction produced H2 as a byproduct.

Examples of usage

  • Many car manufacturers are exploring hydrogen-powered vehicles.
  • The use of hydrogen as a fuel source may reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Hydrogen fuel is being considered for long-distance transportation.
Context #3 | Noun

chemistry

In chemistry, hydrogen is classified as a nonmetal with atomic number 1. It forms bonds with various elements and is a key component in many chemical reactions.

Synonyms

atomic number 1.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hydrogen

Commonly used in scientific, industrial, and educational contexts to refer to the chemical element that is the lightest and most abundant in the universe.

  • Hydrogen is used as a fuel in rocket engines.
  • Water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen.
atomic number 1

Specifically used in scientific and educational discussions when focusing on the position of hydrogen in the periodic table.

  • Hydrogen, with atomic number 1, has only one proton in its nucleus.
  • Elements are often referred to by their atomic numbers, such as hydrogen's atomic number 1.

Examples of usage

  • Hydrogen bonding is crucial in the structure of water molecules.
  • Hydrogen can act as a reducing agent in certain reactions.
  • The reactivity of hydrogen depends on its isotopes.

Translations

Translations of the word "hydrogen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hidrogênio

🇮🇳 हाइड्रोजन

🇩🇪 Wasserstoff

🇮🇩 hidrogen

🇺🇦 водень

🇵🇱 wodór

🇯🇵 水素 (suiso)

🇫🇷 hydrogène

🇪🇸 hidrógeno

🇹🇷 hidrojen

🇰🇷 수소 (suso)

🇸🇦 هيدروجين

🇨🇿 vodík

🇸🇰 vodík

🇨🇳 氢 (qīng)

🇸🇮 vodik

🇮🇸 vetni

🇰🇿 сутегі

🇬🇪 წყალბადი

🇦🇿 hidrogen

🇲🇽 hidrógeno

Etymology

The word 'hydrogen' is derived from the Greek words 'hydro' (water) and 'genes' (forming), reflecting the fact that water is a product of its combustion. Hydrogen was first recognized as a distinct element by Henry Cavendish in 1766. It has since become a crucial component in various industries and energy technologies.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,660, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.