Here's why:
* Hydrogen exists as a diatomic molecule (H2). Two hydrogen atoms share their electrons to form a stable covalent bond, creating the molecule we know as hydrogen gas. This bonding satisfies the octet rule and makes the molecule more stable than individual hydrogen atoms.
* Isotopes: Even though hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, it exists in various isotopes:
* Protium (1H): This is the most common isotope, consisting of one proton and one electron.
* Deuterium (2H): Contains one proton, one neutron, and one electron. It's stable.
* Tritium (3H): Contains one proton, two neutrons, and one electron. It's radioactive and decays over time.
Therefore, while the atomic number 1 represents hydrogen, it's not stable in its pure form. It needs to bond with another hydrogen atom to form a stable diatomic molecule.