A platinum mesh electrode is used to introduce atoms of this element into a sample material in a method called "cathode charging." Above 400 degrees Celsius, atoms of this element react with steel in a mechanism termed "high-temperature attack." By lowering the dislocation activation energy, atoms of this element enhance "localized plasticity." Atoms of this element diffuse into the microstructure of an alloy in a mechanism called (*) "embrittlement." At room temperature and pressure, palladium adsorbs nearly 1000 times its volume in this element. Either carbon monoxide or this element reacts with iron ores to produce elemental iron in "direct reduction." A metallic phase of this element is believed to exist in the extremely high pressures of Jupiter and Saturn's cores. For 10 points, name this lightest element on the periodic table. ■END■
ANSWER: hydrogen [or H; accept answers referring to hydrogen gas or dihydrogen or H2]
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