As the first element in the periodic table Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe. Pure Hydrogen (H2) can be generated from hydrogen compounds, including fossil fuels or water by adding energy.
Hydrogen, which derives its name from the water generated by its combustion, is currently used in oil refineries, chemical plants, food processing facilities, silicon wafer processing facilities in the hydrogenation of organic materials, as a reducing atmosphere, in oxyhydrogen torches, as rocket fuels, and as a fuel for fuel cells. Use of hydrogen-fueled fuel cells for transportation and electricity production would reduce pollution and increase the efficiency with which natural resources are used, leading us towards a sustainable energy future.
Hydrogen is: A colorless, tasteless, odorless gaseous element. The most abundant element in the universe, as it is an ingredient of water and many other substances. The lightest known substance, being fourteen and a half times lighter than air, and over eleven thousand times lighter than water.
The bulk of hydrogen currently produced is from steam reformation of natural gas. Other processes — such as electrolysis of water, ammonia dissociation, and hydrocarbon oxidation — are used to produce hydrogen as well. Hydrogen is also produced by the action of acids (such as sulphuric) on metals such as zinc and iron.