CHEMISTRY
PERIODICALLY SPEAKING: 150 YEARS OF THE PERIODIC TABLE
This year marks the 150th anniversary of the
publication of Mendeleev’s Periodic Table
of Chemical Elements in 1869. We sat down
with Dr. Alan Downward to learn more!
Flinn: Why is the periodic table so
foundational not only to chemistry but
to all the domains of science?
Dr. Downward: The periodic table is the
ultimate summary of trends and properties.
It elegantly summarizes so much of science
and puts it in an easily digestible form. When
scientists from all disciplines are looking at
alternate materials for use in a new product
or process, they will often start by looking at
the periodic table and using it to inform their
decision making.
Flinn: What do you imagine we can expect
in periodic table discoveries by the 200th
anniversary?
Dr. Downward: At this current point in time,
all seven rows of the periodic table are full.
This will absolutely change and probably
sooner rather
than later. Some
physicists have
predicted an
island of stability
near the end
of our current
periodic table. If
this is confirmed,
studying these
super heavy
elements could reveal materials with unusual
or unexpected properties. Already it is
predicted that the “noble gas” Oganesson
will be a solid at room temperature.
Dr. Alan Downward holds a Bachelor of Science, with first class
honors, and a PhD in chemistry from the University of Canterbury in
New Zealand. After completing his PhD, Dr. Downward worked as a
post-doctoral researcher at the University of Geneva in Switzerland.
Dr. Downward has authored or co-authored six manuscripts in peerreviewed
journals and was awarded the Don Stranks Award in 2010
for his research into photo-activated cytotoxins.
Periodic Table Jigsaw Puzzle
Each element is represented by a large, close-up photo of the element.
Challenge students to construct the puzzle without looking at a periodic
table, or have them determine the history or use of an element. 1,000
pieces. 34" x 16" when assembled.
AP7597—$18.95
Periodic Table, Multicolored Wall Charts
Going beyond the basics, this chart includes boiling and melting points,
density, electron configuration, half-life, isotopes and atomic radius
as well as important constants, a solubility table, solubility curves,
electronegativity table and flame tests table. 58" x 42".
2 options available—$70.15–$144.60
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