Occurrence and Position of Hydrogen in the Periodic Table

Hydrogen is a diatomic gas which belongs to group 1 (or group IA) of the periodic table. It makes up approximately 1% of the earth’s crust and is found mostly in a combined form with other elements. It is found combined with carbon in natural gas and petroleum; and in organic compounds like protein, carbohydrates, fats, etc. 

The position of hydrogen is unusual. Hydrogen has one electron on its shell. Consequently, it is considered as belonging to group 1 of the periodic table. Hydrogen also acts like the elements of group 7 when it gains one electron to attend a stable configuration (duplet). For that, it is classified as a member of the halogens. In the modern periodic table, hydrogen is placed in group 1.