Position of Hydrogen

Hydrogen is the first element in the periodic table and falls under the top most alkali metals. This is why the structure of hydrogen is similar to the entire element that falls in alkali metals. The position of Hydrogen in the periodic table is first because its atomic number is 1. This means that hydrogen has a single electron in its outer shell.

The elements in the periodic table are placed according to their electronic configuration. Hydrogen is a unique element that can be compatible with all the metals in the periodic table. Hydrogen is a flammable gaseous substance that contains one unit of proton and one unit of an electron with respective electrical charges associated with the nucleus. Therefore the unique position of hydrogen in the periodic table is justified as it can join any element as per the requirement.

Structure of Hydrogen

Hydrogen is the lightest and simplest member of the atomic family. It contains a single electron in its valence shell and tends to lose or gain an electron to enter the new properties. The structure of Hydrogen is similar to the alkali metals and can and can also enter the family of noble gasses. If Hydrogen loses an electron, it produces cation and attains the property of alkali metals. Similarly, if it gains the electron, it joins the family of noble gasses. Hence, hydrogen is considered a special element with a hydrogen position in the periodic table of both types.

Hydrogen in the periodic table

Hydrogen tends to make compounds with almost all the elements in the periodic table. It forms oxides, sulfides, and halides with the alkali metals. In regular conditions, Hydrogen lacks metallic properties; therefore, it resembles halogen properties more likely than an alkali metal. The position of hydrogen in the Mendeleev periodic table is also first because of its property of gaining and losing electrons. The positive and negative electrical charge in hydrogen decides the characteristics of hydrogen. 

The characteristics of Hydrogen are similar to alkali metals but only when it loses an electron. This is the reason that there are many theories regarding the position of Hydrogen in the periodic table. Losing an electron brings it into the category of noble gasses. Hence according to some theories, it can be placed in any position from 1st to 17th in the periodic table.

Similarities of Hydrogen

• With metals: The position of Hydrogen in the periodic table is first because of its certain similarities with the metals. It resembles its properties to the alkali metals placed in group I-A. Hydrogen combines with the electronegative elements to form halides, and similar properties are found in alkali metals. This significantly places the hydrogen in the first position of both periodic tables.
• With halogens: The electronegative nature of halogens and hydrogen are similar, forming diatomic molecules. When Hydrogen gains an electron, it completes its valence shell. Similarly, gaining an electron transforms the halogens into noble gasses. Therefore if Hydrogen shares its single electron, it enters the family of noble gasses. This is one of the major reasons that provide a unique Hydrogen position in the periodic table. 

Difference of Hydrogen

• With metals: Hydrogen is a gaseous substance, while alkalis are metallic elements. Both do not lose properties at room temperature and remain in their original forms. The ions of hydrogen are smaller than alkali metals. There is a huge difference in the ionization potential of both elements. The Hydrogen has an ionization potential of 300 KCal while alkalis reach 147 KCal maximum.

• With halogen: The position of hydrogen in the periodic table is the result of many factors, including its properties and reaction with other elements. The major difference between Hydrogen with halogen is the number of electrons in their valence shell. While hydrogen has only one electron, the halogens have seven electrons in their valence shells. The size of ions of Hydrogen is also very small compared to the size of halogen ions.

Reason for Hydrogen being in the first position

In a very general manner, the position of hydrogen in the modern periodic table is not fixed. But due to its electronic configuration, it is placed in the first position. Some periodic tables place Hydrogen with alkali metals. It is placed with alkali metals because it can easily lose an electron to join the alkali metals. 

Properties of Hydrogen

• Physical Properties:

• Hydrogen is a colorless, tasteless, odorless, and flammable gaseous element.
• At lower temperatures, hydrogen can be liquefied.
• Hydrogen acts as a good reducing agent at high temperatures.

• Chemical properties:

• Hydrogen reacts with oxygen to form water.
• It reacts with halogens to form halides.
• To form heavy water, Deuterium reacts with oxygen.

Uses of hydrogen:

• Liquid hydrogen is used as rocket fuel.
• It is also used as fuel cells for generating electricity.
• Due to its flammable properties used in petrochemical industries.
• Also used as the coolant in power stations.
• Used in hydrogenation procedure.

Conclusion

Hydrogen is the gaseous element that can attain the properties of many elements in the periodic table. There are many theories in chemistry discussing the position of Hydrogen in the Mendeleev periodic table. Hydrogen today is used in many forms and many industries. There are many reasons found to justify the first position in the periodic table. As per the discussion, the reactions and bonds that Hydrogen makes are unique. The transformation property of hydrogen joining the alkali metals and entering the noble gasses family is not found in any other element. The modern era uses hydrogen in a unique way. This proves that its properties, moulds, and usage are easy if used with certain precautions.