Question
Why does hydrogen occur in a diatomic form rather than in monoatomic form under normal conditions?

Answer

Hydrogen atom has only one electron in its valence shell having electronic configuration $1s^1.$
It can acquire stable configuration of helium by sharing this electron with another hydrogen atom.
Therefore, it shares its single electron with electron of the other $H-$atom to achieve stable inert gas configuration of $He$.
Thus, hydrogen readily forms diatomic molecule and exists as $H_2$ rather than in monoatomic form.

Need a full question paper?

Generate a complete, print-ready paper with questions like this in minutes — across 16+ boards, with answer keys.

Start Generating Free