Overview
This is the periodic table as you’ve never seen it before. By presenting the elements in the order in which they were discovered, The Elements also tells the story of chemistry.
Now iconic, the table was invented in the 1800s, long before anyone knew what was inside an atom. As more elements were found, the table got bigger. Some were discovered at risk to life and limb – for example, the hunt for the explosive element fluorine injured or even killed several scientists, who came to be known as the fluorine martyrs. Even now, the table is still growing as scientists push the boundaries and add to the 118 elements discovered so far. Some of the newest elements have been observed only as they briefly flicker into existence in the extreme conditions inside particle colliders and accelerators.
Gorgeous photographs show even the most familiar elements in a new light. Bold, clear infographics and artworks reveal aspects of their atomic structure that explain why they behave the way they do. For example, why is gold so malleable and diamond so incredibly hard? How can bismuth levitate, and why does cobalt make paint such a vivid blue?
If you want to unlock the secrets of matter itself, open The Elements.
Now iconic, the table was invented in the 1800s, long before anyone knew what was inside an atom. As more elements were found, the table got bigger. Some were discovered at risk to life and limb – for example, the hunt for the explosive element fluorine injured or even killed several scientists, who came to be known as the fluorine martyrs. Even now, the table is still growing as scientists push the boundaries and add to the 118 elements discovered so far. Some of the newest elements have been observed only as they briefly flicker into existence in the extreme conditions inside particle colliders and accelerators.
Gorgeous photographs show even the most familiar elements in a new light. Bold, clear infographics and artworks reveal aspects of their atomic structure that explain why they behave the way they do. For example, why is gold so malleable and diamond so incredibly hard? How can bismuth levitate, and why does cobalt make paint such a vivid blue?
If you want to unlock the secrets of matter itself, open The Elements.
While major retailers like Amazon may carry The Elements, we specialize in bulk book sales and offer personalized service from our friendly, book-smart team based in Portland, Oregon. We’re proud to offer a Price Match Guarantee and a streamlined ordering experience from people who truly care.
We’re trusted by over 75,000 customers, many of whom return time and again. Want proof? Just check out our 25,000+ customer reviews—real feedback from people who love how we do business.
Prefer to talk to a real person? Our Book Specialists are here Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST and ready to help with your bulk order of The Elements.