Elementkarten

Elementkarten, also known as periodic tables, are graphical representations of the chemical elements, which are arranged in a tabular format according to their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. The standard version of the periodic table consists of 18 columns, known as groups, and 7 rows, known as periods. The elements are organized in such a way that elements with similar properties appear in the same vertical column, or group.

The periodic table was first published by Dmitri Mendeleev in 1869. Mendeleev's table was based on the atomic mass of the elements and left gaps for elements that were not yet discovered. These gaps were later filled with elements that were predicted to have properties similar to the elements surrounding the gaps. This predictive power is one of the key features of the periodic table.

The periodic table is divided into several main groups. Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 2 (alkaline earth metals) are on the left side of the table, while Group 17 (halogens) and Group 18 (noble gases) are on the right side. The elements in these groups have similar chemical properties due to their similar electron configurations.

The periodic table is a fundamental tool in chemistry, aiding in the prediction of the properties of elements and compounds. It is widely used by chemists, students, and educators to understand and organize chemical information. The table is continually updated as new elements are discovered and new information about existing elements becomes available.