Elements as Building Blocks
The periodic table is organized like a big grid.
Each element is placed in a specific location because of its atomic
structure. As with any grid, the periodic table has rows (left to right)
and columns (up and down). Each row and column has specific
characteristics.
For example, magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Mg) are found in column two and share certain similarities while potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) from row four share different characteristics. Magnesium and sodium (Na) also share qualities because the are in the same period (similar electron configurations).
Why are the First 18 Elements Special?
(1) The electrons fit nicely into three orbitals. Remember that the electrons spin around the nucleus in regions called orbitals. (2) These elements make up most of the matter in the Universe. (3) It is a lot easier to remember facts about 18 elements as opposed to over 100 elements.The periodic table is organized like a big grid.
Cards are sorted according to atomic number
More Information about each element
Young Chemist
Make these fun experiments that you can do at home.