The evolution of the periodic table

By Peter Wothers and Catherine Smith2018-10-22T12:09:00

Collection of Royal Society of Chemistry periodic tables

Source: Royal Society of Chemistry

Uncovering the history of the periodic table’s distinct design

The periodic table is known the world over, to scientists and non-scientists. While only scientists might notice if some elements were misplaced, the overall arrangement of little squares containing a number and element symbol is immediately recognisable. It didn’t always look like this though, so let’s explore some of the highlights of its development.

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