Question

Why does hydrogen occur in a diatomic form rather than in a monoatomic form under normal conditions?

Answer 1

The ionization enthalpy of hydrogen atom is very high $\left(1312kJmo{l}^{-2}\right)$. Hence, it is very hard to remove its only electron. As a result, its tendency to exist in the monoatomic form is rather low. Instead, hydrogen forms a covalent bond with another hydrogen atom and exists as a diatomic $\left(H_2\right)$ molecule.