Chemistry / Unit 12 Chem 2326 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Hydrogen's Dual Periodic-Table Position
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The idea
Hydrogen fits group 1, losing one electron to form H+, or group 17, gaining one to form H−, since its single electron half-fills its shell.
In practice
Hydrogen forms HCl by sharing an electron pair, like a nonmetal, yet forms H+ in acids, like a metal.
Where people slip
Neither placement is fully correct alone — treating hydrogen as typical of either group misses its special status.
Your place on the trail
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