is a list of all known elements, ordered by increasing atomic number. It is split into vertical columns called groups, and horizontal rows called periods.

is a column on the periodic table that corresponds to the number of electrons in the outer shell of an atom.

is a horizontal row on the periodic table. Each period corresponds to a number of shells of electrons in an atom of an element.

a group of metals found in the central block of the periodic table.

Groups of elements in the periodic table

Science

Group 1 and 2 metals

Group 7 (halogens)

Group 0 (Noble Gases)

In the Atomic structure and the periodic table unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to learn about how the structure of atoms in each element determine its position on the periodic table and affects its chemical and physical properties.

In the Atoms, elements and compounds unit, pupils learnt about atoms, the differences between elements and compounds and how particles reorganise in a chemical reaction

This unit explores the periodic table, including the principles behind Mendeleev's design, the arrangement of elements into periods and groups, and the classification of metals and non-metals. It examines how the physical and chemical properties of elements predict reaction patterns.

Patterns in the periodic table

The periodic table is organised by increasing atomic number.

Each row in the periodic table is called a group.

Elements in the same group have different properties.

Each column in the periodic table is called a period.

The periodic table was developed by Dimitri Mendeleev.

Which of the following statements about the periodic table are correct? 

They have the same number of electron shells.

Which of the following statements about elements in the same group is correct?

Dimitri {{}} developed the periodic table, organising elements by their properties.

He organised elements by increasing atomic weight.

He grouped elements with similar properties.

Which of the following did Dimitri Mendeleev do when developing the periodic table? 

They are found in Group 1 of the periodic table.

They have similar properties to non–metals.

They are located in the central block of the periodic table.

Which statement of the following statements about the transition metals is correct?

Match the following elements to their group.

What is the chemical symbol for hydrogen?

The smallest part of an element that can take part in a chemical reaction.

To show the relationships and properties of the elements.

To display elements in order of discovery.

Why is the periodic table organised in a specific way?

Elements that are shiny, conductive and malleable.

Elements that have properties of both metals and non–metals.

Elements that are usually brittle, non–conductive and often dull.

Match the description to the correct type of element.

A non–metal used in balloons to make them float.

A non–metal we need to survive (for respiration).

A non–metal that makes up 80% of the air we breathe.

Match the element to the correct statement.

Starter Quiz

What is the periodic table?