Question

“The symbol H stands for ___ of hydrogen.
A.One atom
B.One molecule
C.One ion
D.Two atoms

Answer 1

Hint: We must know the difference between atoms, molecules and elements. Then only we can find the name of H.


Complete step by step solution:
Let’s first discuss all the terms that are given in this question. One atom means that a single atom without any bonds and only having its internal interaction between nuclei and electrons.
One molecule means two or more atoms joined together by a bond to form a bigger, stable unit. In this many different types of bonds can be present like ionic bonds (for example\[NaCl\]) or covalent bonds (for example\[C{H_4}\]). Molecules have different characteristics and properties as compared with atoms.
One ion means a charged single molecule or atom. An ion can contain either \[ + ve\]or \[-ve\]charge. The charge is acquired due to electron donation or acceptance. If an electron is denoted a \[ + ve\] charge is being acquired and if an electron is being accepted then a \[-ve\] charge is being acquired.
Two atoms mean two atoms which are not bonded together or by any other atoms. They are freely moving without any or very little interaction with each other.
Now, looking at the question we can see that H cannot be one molecule as a molecule needs two or more than two atoms joined together. Similarly since it doesn’t carry any charge it cannot be an ion. Two atoms is also not possible as no such indication is given. So, the answer will be option A. one atom.



Note: We must know that hydrogen is the first element in the periodic table with only one proton and one electron and no neutron. It has an atomic number of 1. It has 2 isotopes namely deuterium and tritium having one and two neutrons respectively. The atomic weight of all three is 1, 2 and 3 respectively.