Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe, making up about 75% of all matter. Hydrogen atoms are very small and simple, consisting of just a single proton at their nucleus. Despite their simplicity, hydrogen atoms are extremely versatile and can form many different types of molecules by bonding with other elements.
Hydrogen gas is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is highly flammable and will burn in air at a very high rate if ignited. When combined with oxygen to form water vapor, it produces an invisible flame that is hard to detect until it’s too late. That’s why hydrogen fires are particularly dangerous – they can spread quickly and be difficult to put out.
Despite its dangers, hydrogen has many uses that make it worth the risk. It’s used in welding torches because it produces a very hot flame without giving off any harmful fumes like other gases do (such as carbon dioxide). Hydrogen is also used as fuel for rockets because it burns so rapidly – producing large amounts of thrust with little weight.