The periodic table is one of the first things we encounter in chemistry lessons during secondary 3. It’s a colourful chart full of symbols, numbers, and patterns that seem to hold the secrets of matter itself. We memorise the elements, learn about their groups, and try to understand why they’re arranged the way they are. But have you ever stopped to wonder if this table ever changes? Is the periodic table fixed forever, or does it evolve as science progresses?
These questions might pop up as you sit in class, trying to decipher the periodic table’s mysteries. After all, it feels like a stable foundation of chemistry, something we rely on to make sense of the elements that make up our world. But the truth is that the periodic table isn’t as set in stone as it seems – it’s a living document, updated as new discoveries are made. Let’s explore how and why it changes, and what this means for science.
How was the periodic table created?
The periodic table we know today is the result of centuries of work by scientists. Dmitri Mendeleev, a Russian chemist, is often credited with creating the first widely accepted version in 1869. He arranged elements by increasing atomic mass and noticed that elements with similar properties appeared at regular intervals.
What made Mendeleev’s table revolutionary was his ability to predict the existence and properties of elements that hadn’t been discovered yet. Over time, as these elements were found, his predictions were proven right, solidifying the periodic table as a tool for organising chemical knowledge.
Does the periodic table change?
Yes, the periodic table does change! It isn’t a static chart frozen in time. Scientists continually update it when new elements are discovered or when we gain better insights into the properties of existing ones. For example, new elements have been added to the table as recently as 2016.
The periodic table changes when:
New elements are discovered: Scientists synthesise new elements in laboratories, often by smashing atoms together at high speeds. These elements are usually highly unstable and exist for only fractions of a second, but their discovery leads to updates in the table.
Element properties are re-evaluated: As technology improves, we learn more about the properties of elements. This sometimes leads to adjustments in how they’re categorised.
Changes in scientific understanding occur: Sometimes, shifts in how we understand atomic structure or other principles of chemistry result in updates to the periodic table.
Recent additions to the periodic table
The most recent additions to the periodic table were made official in 2016. Four elements – Nihonium (Nh), Moscovium (Mc), Tennessine (Ts), and Oganesson (Og) – were added to complete the seventh row. These elements were discovered through international collaborations involving teams from Japan, Russia, and the United States.
These new elements are all synthetic, meaning they don’t occur naturally on Earth and were created in laboratories. They are also highly unstable, decaying into other elements within milliseconds. Still, their discovery is a reflection of human ingenuity and our ongoing quest to understand the building blocks of the universe.
Why do changes matter?
Updating the periodic table isn’t just about adding new symbols or filling in blanks. Each addition represents a leap in scientific understanding. Discovering new elements helps scientists explore the limits of atomic structure, understand nuclear reactions, and even develop new materials or technologies.
For students, these changes remind us that science isn’t a finished book – it’s a story that’s still being written. The periodic table’s evolution reflects the dynamic nature of science, where new questions arise, and discoveries reshape what we thought we knew.
How students can engage with the periodic table
The periodic table can feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into manageable parts makes it easier to understand. Here are some ways to make it more relatable:
Look for patterns: Elements in the same group (column) share similar properties. This helps in predicting reactions and understanding trends.
Use visual aids: Many resources, such as interactive apps or colourful charts, bring the periodic table to life.
Apply it to real-world examples: Connect elements to everyday materials, like aluminium in soda cans or silicon in electronics, to see their relevance.
For students attending science enrichment classes in Singapore, these hands-on approaches can deepen their understanding and make chemistry more enjoyable.
How does this connect to your science journey?
As students in Singapore, understanding the periodic table is crucial, not just for excelling in exams but for appreciating how chemistry explains the world around us. A strong grasp of the periodic table can also be the foundation for pursuing science-related careers, from engineering to medicine.
Developing a reading habit helps enhance children's science grades, making it easier to grasp complex concepts like the periodic table. Paired with guidance from teachers or science tuition, this can turn challenging topics into exciting discoveries.
Conclusion
The periodic table is far from static – it’s a living document that grows and evolves with science. Its changes reflect the progress of human understanding, from discovering new elements to refining our knowledge of atomic properties.
At Heuristics Science, we understand that grasping complex topics like the periodic table requires more than rote memorisation. That’s why our primary and secondary science tuition combines our unique TCR Answering Technique, guided practice, and practical applications to help students excel. Whether you’re looking to master the periodic table or tackle other scientific mysteries, we’re here to guide you on your learning journey.
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