Database Reference
In-Depth Information
PeRIoDIC TABleS
Mendelev's periodic table of the elements was a revolution in understand-
ing of the elements—not just as a visualization, but also because he used
the atomic weight—that is, how many protons were in the atom—as the
underpinning, and isotypes are simply versions of the same element. The
effect of the way Mendelev laid out the table cannot be overstated. As
shown in Figure 16-2, being able to read the group (for example, beryl-
lium and magnesium both in Group 2) across, and the periods (such as
hydrogen and helium being the only two members of Period 1) down was
of enormous value.
FI gu R e 16 -2
The periodic table of elements
Other forms of this periodic table have been used to illustrate other subject
areas. The periodic table of fonts in Figure 16-3 is a stellar example. This
visualization (including the option to purchase a print) is available here:
www.squidspot.com/Periodic_Table_of_Typefaces.html
.
Perhaps the most intriguing of the periodic table of elements visualizations is
the one at
www.visual-literacy.org/periodic_table/periodic_table.
html
, which is a periodic table of visualizations. This is shown in Figure 16-4.
