Hydrogen

/ˈhaɪdrədʒən/ noun

Definition

The lightest and most common chemical element in the universe, a colorless gas that can burn easily and is found in water.

Etymology

From French “hydrogène,” coined by chemist Antoine Lavoisier from Greek “hydro” (water) and “-gen” (creator), meaning “water‑former.” It was named because burning hydrogen in air produces water.

Kelly Says

Most of the normal matter in the universe is hydrogen—your body, the air, and even stars are full of it. When you drink water (H₂O), you’re literally swallowing hydrogen that was born in ancient stars.

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