Hydrogen

Demonstrates the physical and chemical properties of hydrogen, its preparation, and uses, including a brief explanation of lfi> the thermonuclear reaction of hydrogen isotopes. Preparation of hydrogen is demonstrated by the reaction of an active metal (such as calcium) with water, electrolysis of water, passing hot steam over an active metal (such as magnesium), decomposition of natural gas by heat, and the reaction of a strong acid with an active metal. Shows hydrogen to be a colorless, odorless gas, and discusses its atomic and molecular structure in relation to its chemical activity with non-metals and metals. Industrial uses illustrated are in refining petroleum, hydrogenation, and production of ammonia. The heavy isotopes of hydrogen - deuterium and tritium - are explained in relationship to thermonuclear reactions.