The elements of the periodic table are arranged by atomic number (number of protons in the nucleus), each new element simply has 1 more proton than the last.

This is to say, that atoms, which are formed from the elementary particles and their interactions, differ by proton number. Protons (formed from quarks) attract electrons (leptons). The number of electrons and the charge of electrons dictates which other elements atoms can bind with and thus what geometric patterns elements can form.

All matter in the universe can be understood through chemistry, the particle physics that it’s built on, and the physical laws that govern the interactions. At its core, chemistry is physics.

FACT: Before the modern elements were known, the classical elements of earth, wind, water, and fire were studied under “element theory” and chemistry was called alchemy. Thus, this section also contains outdated element theories that, despite their historic interest, are best classified as pseudoscience.


Factoids tagged with "Elements"

At Its Core, Chemistry is Physics Fact

On a fundamental level, chemistry can be explained by physics. The atoms that make up the periodic table elements are themselves made of quantum particles.

Fluoride is Bad For You Myth

Fluoride is a name for several fluorine compounds. Fluoride is good for oral hygiene in small doses, but extremely dangerous and toxic in large doses.

Astrology is Based on Science Fact

Aspects of astrology are rooted in the science of astronomy and the academic tradition, but today astrology is considered a pseudoscience.

Blog Posts tagged with "Elements"

The Spheres of Human Understanding

All knowledge, all human understanding, can be said to be of four types: physical (empirical), logical (reason), ethical (philosophy in-action), and metaphysical (pure philosophy).

Separation of Powers Metaphor

The four “elements” (or “powers”) that form the foundation of government can roughly be expressed as: citizens, executive, legislative, and judicial.

Vices and Virtues Explained

We present a list of vices and virtues and look at vices and virtues as understood by philosophers like Aristotle and Aquinas.

The Secret Life of Isaac Newton

Isaac Newton produced many well-known works in math, astronomy, and physics, but he produced about as many unpublished works which dealt with theology, alchemy, and the occult.

Book Reviews tagged with "Elements"

Plato’s Republic Explained

Plato’s Republic attempts to define “justice”, show why we should be just, and relate this to an ideal form of government which best fosters justice in the State and Soul.