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  • The Periodic Table Vocabulary

element
A pure substance that can not be broken down into simpler substances. All atoms in a pure substance are of one element.
EX: C, Na, H2, Zn, O2
chemical symbol
An abbreviation that represents the name of each element on the periodic table.
EX: He is the symbol for Helium
atomic number
Identifies the element. Same as the number of protons.
atomic mass
Protons + Neutrons = the atomic mass
In order to find the number of neutrons just subtract the number of protons (atomic number) from the atomic mass. What you have left over is your number of neutrons.
groups
The columns (up and down) of the periodic table. The group number tells us how many valence electrons an element has.

non-Metals
Non-metals are located on the right side of the periodic table (seen as green on this image). They are poor conductors, brittle, and have a dull luster.
The halogens, which are very reactive, are non-metals. (Group 17)
The noble gases, which are the most stable elements, are also non-metals. (Group 18)
periods
The rows (left to right) of the periodic table. The period number tells us how many electron levels and element has.
Metalloids
Metalloids are located on the stair-step (zig-zag) line on the periodic table, seen as teal in this image. They are semi-conductors, can be dull or shiny, and are malleable and ductile.
metals
Metals start on the left side of the periodic table and make up most of the elements. They are purple in this image. Metals are conductive, have a shiny luster, are malleable and ductile.
Alkali metals are metals which are very reactive. (Group 1)
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