The Periodic Table

The Periodic Table

The periodic table arranges all known elements by atomic number (the number of protons in an atom).

Groups and periods

Elements in the same group (column) have similar chemical properties because they have the same number of electrons in their outer shell. Elements in the same period (row) have the same number of electron shells.

Metals and non-metals

Metals (left and centre of the table) are typically shiny, malleable, and good conductors. Non-metals (right side) are often dull, brittle, and poor conductors.