Periodic table — Science definition
A chart that organizes all known elements by increasing atomic number and by shared properties.
Where it is taught
- The Periodic Table — Properties of Matter, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
In use
The periodic table can look like an intimidating wall of boxes, but it's really one of the most brilliant organizing tools in all of science — a map that sorts every known element by its structure and behavior.
The Periodic Table
Questions using periodic table
Problem 1
Elements in the same column (group) of the periodic table tend to have similar…
- numbers of neutrons
- numbers of valence electrons
- atomic masses
- numbers of protons
Answer and explanation
numbers of valence electrons
Elements in a group share the same number of valence electrons, which drives similar chemical behavior.
Problem 2
Which region of the periodic table contains elements that are generally shiny, malleable, and good conductors?
- Nonmetals (upper right)
- Metals (left and center)
- Metalloids (along the zigzag line)
- Noble gases (Group 18) only
Answer and explanation
Metals (left and center)
Metals, found on the left and center of the table, are typically shiny, malleable, and conduct electricity well.
Problem 3
Elements in the same column of the periodic table generally have
- the same mass
- similar chemical behaviour
- the same number of neutrons
- identical melting points
Answer and explanation
similar chemical behaviour
A column shares the same number of outer electrons, which is what governs how an element reacts.