The Periodic Table

A Very Short Introduction

Eric R. Scerri (University of California, Los Angeles)

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English

Oxford University Press
08 November 2011

Mathematics & Sciences; Inorganic chemistry

Series: Very Short Introductions

Here, Eric Scerri looks at the trends in properties of elements that led to the construction of the periodic table, and how the deeper meaning of its structure gradually became apparent with the development of atomic theory and quantum mechanics, so that, as Scerri puts it, one science, physics, arguably came to colonize another, chemistry, although such a view is resisted by chemists. Scerri shows that quantum mechanics is absolutely central to chemistry, as it underlies the behaviour of all of the elements and their compounds, and therefore underpins the structure of the periodic table. Concluding with an overview of the huge variety of periodic tables that have been proposed in the print media and on the Internet, he explores the debated question of whether there is an optimal periodic table and what form it might take. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

By: Eric R. Scerri (University of California Los Angeles)
Imprint: Oxford University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 173mm, Width: 113mm, Spine: 9mm
Weight: 130g
ISBN: 9780199582495
ISBN 10: 0199582491
Series: Very Short Introductions
Pages: 144
Publication Date: 08 November 2011
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

1. Introduction; 2. Atomic weight, Triads and Prout; 3. Steps towards the periodic table; 4. Triumph of a Russian genius; 5. The impact of the new physics; 6. How the electron explains the periodic table; 7. How chemists reacted; 8. Quantum Mechanics makes further advances; 9. Forged in the stars; 10. Back to Chemistry; 11. Why so many tables? Which is best?; Further reading

Reviews for The Periodic Table: A Very Short Introduction

Scerri's writing is lively, engaging, and accessible. Journal of Chemical Education Overall this stylish and snappy book will entertain and enlighten you, and its convenient size means it can do so when you're on the go Chemistry World