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e-Journal

Element Discovery (pp. 500–501)


Step 1. Questions

Each element on the periodic table has a unique set of properties. Many of the elements have Greek or Latin names. These names often reveal information about the element's properties.

Write a report about how some of the elements on the periodic table were named. To do so, you will need to research the elements. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • Why was the periodic table of elements set up in a certain way?
  • Which elements were discovered as gases?
  • Which elements have names that describe their properties?
  • How are some of the other elements named?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.

With teacher supervision, you may use search engines to research other Web sites. You also can research elements at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.



Step 2. Research

Research answers to the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!


Toolbox Tip: Click here to learn what to do if you receive an error message.


It's Elemental
Learn about all of the known elements at this Web site. When you look at this chart, notice the elements that are colored yellow. These elements are gases at room temperature. Click the symbol for an element to find out more about that element's properties, how the element was discovered, and why it was given its unique name. This Web page is provided by the Department of Energy's Jefferson Lab.
Take Notes:



How the Chemical Elements Were Named
At this Web site from the Nexus Research Group, learn about the names of many elements. The elements have been placed into categories based on how they were named.
Take Notes:



The Idiosyncratic Method of Naming Elements
Read stories about how some of the elements received their names. The information at this site can help you add details to your report. This Web page is part of the Ask A Scientist! section of the Cornell Center for Materials Research.
Take Notes:



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