n. Chem. a colourless gaseous element, without taste or odour, the lightest of the elements and occurring in water and all organic compounds.
Usage:
Symb.: H.
Phrases and idioms:
hydrogen bomb an immensely powerful bomb utilizing the explosive fusion of hydrogen nuclei: also called H-BOMB. hydrogen bond a weak electrostatic interaction between an electronegative atom and a hydrogen atom bonded to a different electronegative atom. hydrogen peroxide a colourless viscous unstable liquid with strong oxidizing properties.
Usage:
Chem. formula: H2O2 hydrogen sulphide a colourless poisonous gas with a disagreeable smell, formed by rotting animal matter.
Usage:
Chem. formula: H2S
Derivatives:
hydrogenous adj.
Etymology: F hydrog{egrave}ne (as HYDRO-, -GEN)