Hydrogen is number 1.
Literally.
It’s the first thing on the periodic table of elements.
This is because it’s the simplest element.
It has only one proton.
It’s also the most abundant element in the universe.
How abundant?
Over 75% of our universe is made out of hydrogen.
Almost every molecule in your body contains hydrogen.
As a gas, Hydrogen is highly flammable, colorless, and odorless.
Sounds kind of evil, but it can be used for good.
In fact, the name Hydrogen comes from the Greek words meaning “water” and “generate”
because when it’s mixed with Oxygen, you get H2O.
But you guys knew that.
Hydrogen gas is also very light, about 14 times lighter than air.
That’s why it has been used in early airships, but not always with great results.
That’s the Hindenburg which is first on the periodic table of balloon disasters.
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