This image may not be used in educational posters Helium and hydrogen molecules. Computer artwork of molecules of helium and hydrogen, the two lightes

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This image may not be used in educational posters Helium and hydrogen molecules. Computer artwork of molecules of helium and hydrogen, the two lightest and most abundant elements in the universe. Helium (He) is a monatomic chemical element, meaning every molecule of the gas comprises only one atom. Each atom consists of a nucleus (orange), surrounded by an electron cloud (pink), which contains two electrons orbiting in a single energy level. Hydrogen (H2), however, is a diatomic molecule. Each atom has a nucleus (dark green) surrounded by an electron cloud (light green), containing only one electron. Therefore in a gaseous state (as is seen here), two atoms will combine to form a covalently bonded molecule, which has two electrons orbiting the nucleus, increasing its stability.

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Size: 4096px × 4096px
Photo credit: © RUSSELL KIGHTLEY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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