(Gr. hydro, water and genes,forming) First recognized by Cavendish in 1766; named by Lavoisier. Most abundant element in the universe, making up approx. 90% of all atoms. Found in the sun and other stars and thought to be a major component of the planet Jupiter. On earth,occurs primarily in combination with oxygen as water. It is present in the earth's atmosphere in small quantities. Harold Urey received the Nobel Peace Prize for his discovery of heavy hydrogen, deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen.
-- part contents for background part 24
----- text -----
superconductivity,hydrogenation of fats and oils, rocket fuel, welding,filling balloons, production of HCl