How does the Periodic Table work?

The layout of the periodic table demonstrates recurring ("periodic") chemical properties. Elements are listed in order of increasing atomic number (i.e. the number of protons in the atomic nucleus). Rows are arranged so that elements with similar properties fall into the same vertical columns ("groups"). According to quantum mechanical theories of electron configuration within atoms, each horizontal row ("period") in the table corresponded to the filling of a quantum shell of electrons. There are progressively longer periods further down the table, grouping the elements into s-, p-, d- and f-blocks to reflect their electron configuration.

In printed tables, each element is usually listed with its element symbol and atomic number; many versions of the table also list the element's atomic mass and other information, such as its abbreviated electron configuration, electronegativity and most common valence numbers.

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How Does The Periodic Table Work

Periodic table

A list of elements (atoms) ordered along horizontal rows according to atomic number (the number of electrons in an atom and also the charge on its nucleus). In the periodic table (see illustration), the rows are arranged so that elements with nearly the same chemical properties occur in the same column (group), and each row ends with a noble gas (closed-shell element that is generally inert). For chemists, the position of atoms in the periodic table provides the most powerful guide for classifying the expected properties of molecules and solids made from these particular atoms.

it catorgarised in different groups - non metals, meals, acids and alkalis.

the higher up the element is in the table - the more reactive it is - the lower down the element is in the periodic table - the least reactive it is

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is it not just for reference? For the element numbers?

its got different sections, metals non metals etc. It also has the chemical symbols for each.

I think it's has to do with numbers

Good morning to you

it's complicated to the novice.