Question

Why can a hydrogen atom become either an ion or part of a molecule?

Answer 1

Hydrogen atom has 1 electron, 1 proton, and 1 neutron

[Different elements have different numbers or electrons, protons, and neutrons]

If it loses that 1 electron (0 electrons, 1 proton, 1 neutron) it become an ion that is positively charge because it has more protons than electrons. [Ignore the neutrons]

If it gains an electron (2 electrons, 1 proton, 1 neutron) it becomes an ion that is negatively charge because it has more electrons than protons

A molecule - when 2 or more "different" elements combine or when 2 or more of the "same" elements combine

1 proton 1 electron <----- that is considered to be neutral

3 protons, 3 electrons <----- neutral

5 protons 5 electrons <----- neutral

6 protons, 5 electrons <-- positive ion [more protons than electrons]

5 protons, 8 electrons <--- negative ion [more electrons than protons]



it can become a molecule if it shares its 1 electron with another element or the same element
molecule --> H20

Answer 2

It can become an ion because it can lose or gain an electron. It can become a part of a molecule because it can form covalent bonds with other atoms to gain a full valence shell.

Answer 3

this should be posted under chemistry