Understand the Names and Symbols of Elements

All substances are made up of tiny particles called atoms.

There are over 100 different types of elements, each with its own sort of atom.

Elements are found on a special chart called the periodic table.

Each element has its own unique name and unique symbol.

For example:

The element copper has the symbol Cu.

The element sulfur has the symbol S.

An element is a substance that is made from just one type of atom. It cannot be broken down into any other substance.

If we look at a particle diagram of an element, it makes it very easy to tell that it's an element - because all of the atoms in an element are the same colour and size!

Let's have a go at some questions about elements and the periodic table!