Hydrogen
The lightest, most buoyant gas that fuels the colony's power grid and demands careful management.
Hydrogen is a light, flammable gas that serves as one of the most useful yet essential elements in the Oxygen Not Included universe. Generated naturally by Electrolyzers and certain biological processes, it rises rapidly due to its extremely low density, accumulating at the highest points of any enclosed space or cavern ceiling. It can be ignited by sparks or explosions in-game, making it a volatile but valuable resource. It is the primary fuel source for the Hydrogen Generator, which produces power for the colony. Note that water is not produced through combustion in the game; instead, water is generated only via specific buildings like the Electrolyzer or Steam Turbine.
- flammability
- Flammable (can be ignited by sparks or explosions in-game)
Lore & Background
Despite its volatile nature, Hydrogen is indispensable for survival. It acts as the fuel for the Hydrogen Generator, allowing colonies to power their machinery and thrive in the freezing depths of the planet's crust where natural heat sources are scarce. Additionally, the Anti Entropy Thermo-Nullifier consumes Hydrogen directly to produce cooling, without any reaction with Oxygen. This cycle of creation and consumption defines the gas's role: it is the breath of industry that must be managed with precision to keep the colony running smoothly.
In Their Own Story
The alarm blared, a shrill warning cutting through the hum of the ventilation fans. Above, a thick, invisible cloud of Hydrogen had pooled against the rock, waiting for just one spark to unleash its fury. The nearby Electrolyzer sputtered, leaking more fuel into the trap.
Reader's Guide
Hydrogen is primarily found in the upper reaches of any enclosed area due to its extremely low density. It naturally accumulates at the very top of caverns, making high-altitude management critical for colony safety. In terms of temperature, Hydrogen behaves like other gases but becomes a liquid only under extreme pressure and near-absolute zero conditions, which are rarely encountered in standard gameplay scenarios without advanced cooling systems. The primary hazard is its explosive nature. When mixed with Oxygen at specific ratios and exposed to an ignition source—such as a spark from a machine or a lit match—it detonates violently, dealing massive damage to structures and Duplicants. Extraction usually involves Electrolyzers that split Water into Hydrogen and Oxygen. To manage it safely, players often route the gas through pipes to Fusion Heaters for energy or vent it directly into space via Airlocks to prevent accumulation.
Did You Know?
- Hydrogen is the only gas in the game that rises faster than Helium, making it the absolute top layer of any unmanaged atmosphere.
- Contrary to real-world chemistry, Hydrogen and Oxygen combustion does not produce Water in the game; water is only created via buildings like the Electrolyzer or Steam Turbine.
- Hydrogen can be ignited by sparks or explosions in-game, and the Anti Entropy Thermo-Nullifier consumes Hydrogen to produce cooling, not via a reaction with Oxygen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hydrogen and where does it come from?
Hydrogen is the lightest gas in the game, naturally produced when you split water using an Electrolyzer or through certain biological activities. It immediately rises to the very top of any enclosed space because it has the lowest density of all gases.
Why is Hydrogen considered so dangerous?
This gas is highly flammable and will cause a massive explosion if it accumulates near oxygen sources and encounters an open flame or spark. Additionally, high concentrations can displace breathable air, leading to asphyxiation for your Duplicants even though the gas itself is non-toxic.
How do I safely use Hydrogen in my colony?
You must carefully vent excess hydrogen away from oxygen-rich areas to prevent catastrophic explosions while harnessing its energy. It serves as an excellent fuel source for advanced heaters and can be burned with oxygen to generate water, which is vital for survival.
Does Hydrogen have any beneficial properties besides being dangerous?
Despite its volatility, it is essential for creating water through combustion and provides a powerful heat source for warming your base. Its ability to rise quickly also makes it useful for specific gas management strategies if handled correctly.
What happens when Hydrogen burns?
When ignited in the presence of oxygen, hydrogen combusts rapidly to produce steam, which eventually condenses into liquid water. This reaction is a primary method for recycling waste gases back into drinkable resources while simultaneously generating heat.
More in Biomes & Resources
Elsewhere in the Oxygen Not Included universe
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