In this world, it seems like everybody hates everybody else, but if there is one thing most people can agree on, it is this: chemistry sucks, especially for those who find it super tough. But maybe it isn’t that boring after all. Here are 6 interesting facts you didn’t know about the first six elements in the periodic table (one for each element) to lighten up your day, and make you want to get your old textbooks again. (Was that a bit too hopeful? Probably was.)
1. Hydrogen
Next time you find out you gained a “little” extra kilos over Christmas, you could blame this element partly for that. About 10 percent of the weight of living organisms is hydrogen – mainly in water, proteins and fats. And you all know how much fats we gain over the holidays.
Source: https://www.chemicool.com/elements/hydrogen-facts.html
2. Helium
Balloons seem to have a thing with the Sun. It flies towards the sun, is as dangerous as it (VERY VERY dangerous for your eardrums) and even LOOKS like it. Maybe it is because element 2 likes it too. (Geddit?) Helium was discovered in the Sun’s atmosphere before it was found on Earth. They both make a very weird couple.
Source: https://www.chemicool.com/elements/helium-facts.html
3. Lithium
Some people look tough but aren’t. Lithium is sadly one of them. Although it is a metal, it is soft enough to cut with a knife.
Source: https://www.ducksters.com/science/chemistry/lithium.php
4. Beryllium
Although it may not be as well-known as oxygen or hydrogen, Beryllium has a long history, having been known to the ancient Egyptians in beryl and in emeralds.
Source: http://www.softschools.com/facts/periodic_table/beryllium_facts/186/
5. Boron
Looks like we’re not the only animals with skin problems. Snake often have skin issues that require some cure. Borax is a widely used Boron compound that is used to give slimy serpents some relief from skin issues.
Source: https://factslegend.org/30-boron-fun-facts-hone-your-knowledge
6. Carbon
Carbon is such an all-rounder, it can’t make up its mind on what it wants to be. Elemental carbon can take the form of one of the hardest substances (diamond) or one of the softest (graphite).
Source: https://www.thoughtco.com/carbon-element-facts-606515