Question map
Which one of the following statements is not correct?
Explanation
Hydrogen is the lightest known element in the periodic table, with an atomic number of 1. It is a non-metal element that typically exists as a diatomic molecule (H2) [1]. While the question asks for the incorrect statement, option 3 is false because hydrogen does have isotopes. Specifically, it has three naturally occurring isotopes: Protium (the most common, with no neutrons), Deuterium (one neutron), and Tritium (two neutrons) [2]. These isotopes are unique as they are the only ones in chemistry given specific names. Furthermore, hydrogen and oxygen can indeed form highly combustible or explosive mixtures over a wide range of concentrations, representing a significant safety hazard in industrial applications [1]. Therefore, the claim that hydrogen has no isotopes is the only incorrect statement among the choices provided.
Sources
- [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/hydrogen-explosion
- [2] https://www.energy.gov/science/doe-explainsdeuterium-tritium-fusion-fuel