Lewis Structure Generator
Hydrogen molecule · H2

H2 Lewis Structure

H₂ contains only two valence electrons. The atoms share that pair in one H–H single bond, giving each hydrogen the two-electron shell required by the duet rule.

Open H2 in the generatorSee drawing steps
H₂
H—H
One shared pair; no lone pairs
Total valence electrons2
Bond order1
Lone pairs0
GeometryLinear

H2 overview

Each hydrogen contributes one electron. Joining the atoms with a single bond uses both electrons and gives each atom access to the shared pair.

How to draw H2

  1. Count 2 valence electrons.
  2. Place the two hydrogen atoms next to each other.
  3. Draw one single bond between them.
  4. Confirm that each hydrogen sees two electrons.

Why hydrogen uses a duet

Hydrogen has only a 1s valence shell, which is full with two electrons. It does not follow the eight-electron octet rule used for many second-period atoms.

Common mistakes

  • Adding lone pairs to hydrogen.
  • Drawing a double bond.
  • Trying to give each hydrogen eight electrons.
  • Counting the bond as one electron instead of two.

Last reviewed: July 16, 2026. Educational reference only.