Whether an exam is approaching or you just want to learn something new, it's a good idea to memorize the contents of the periodic table of elements. Remembering all of them (there are 118 elements) may seem difficult, especially since each one has a unique symbol and atomic number. Luckily, if you start now, you can learn some elements every day. Tools like mnemonics, phrases, and pictures will improve your memory while making your drawing session fun. When you're ready to put your skills to the test, try some games or even draw a table completely from memory.
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Method 1 of 3: Studying the Table
Step 1. Identify the various parts of each element
Usually, to study the periodic table, you'll need the name, symbol, atomic number, and occasionally the atomic weight of the element. All of this information is listed in the corresponding elements box in the table.
- The element name is a word related to the element. Usually the name of the element is printed in small print below the symbol. For example, silver/silver is the name of the element.
- The symbol consists of 1-2 letters that reflect the element. This is the largest letter in the box. For example, Ag is the symbol for silver.
- The atomic number is the number above the symbol. This number indicates the number of protons that the element has. The periodic table is arranged numerically by atomic number. The atomic number of silver is 47.
- The atomic weight or mass indicates the average size of the atom. This number is below the symbol. For example, the atomic weight of silver is 107, 868.
Step 2. Learn some elements each day
Start with the first 10 elements. Once you've memorized it, add 10 more. Keep reviewing old elements even when learning new ones. Start studying now so you can remember all 118 elements.
The first 10 elements in the periodic table have atomic numbers 1-10
Step 3. Print a copy of the periodic table
That way, you can always carry it everywhere. It's a good idea to make more than one copy: one to keep in your bag or purse, and one to take with you wherever you go.
You can also use the digital version on your phone or tablet, but it will be difficult to use at school or work
Step 4. Create a memory card for each element
On one side of the card, list the symbol for the element, such as Ag, S, or Cu, as well as the atomic number. On the other hand, write the full name of the element, such as Silver, Sulfur, or Copper. Use the cards to test yourself.
If you need to know the group of each element, it's a good idea to include it on a memory card as well. For example, you could write "Ne" on one side, and "Neon, noble gas" on the other
Step 5. Divide the table into small sections
You can divide them by row, column, atomic weight, group, or block. Find the pattern you find easiest, and use it to divide the table into easy-to-remember sections.
- Table rows are called periods. This line extends from one to seven.
- You can also divide the table by group, such as the halogens, noble gases, or alkaline earth metals. Groups are arranged vertically by numbers along the top of the table from one to fourteen.
- The colored sections of the table are called blocks. This can help you remember the location of the elements in the table. Block F, for example, contains the center of the table.
Step 6. Create quizzes for yourself during breaks and free time
Instead of cramming into all the elements in a few hours, try to learn bit by bit in your spare time. You can study while on the bus, at lunch, or while waiting in line. You can:
- Reviewing the memory card at breakfast.
- Reread the chart during a television commercial break.
- Say the elements in order when running or exercising.
- Write down the elements as you wait for dinner to cook.
Method 2 of 3: Using Mnemonics
Step 1. Write down phrases to help you remember each element
Create a short slogan, story, or fact to help you remember each element. These phrases should be short to help you remember the names and symbols of the elements.
- For example, the name of the country Argentina comes from silver metal (Argentum or Ag) because when the Spaniards arrived there, they were looking for a country that had a lot of silver.
- Sometimes, you can come up with funny things to memorize elements, such as "'YOU! Give me back MY GOLD!" can help you memorize the symbol for the element gold, which is Au.
- The symbol for Darmstadtium is Ds, much like the Nintendo DS console. If you want to create a mnemonic, try "My Nintendo DS was left in the Stadium"
Step 2. Spell the word or phrase with elemental letters
Use the letters in the element symbols to create phrases that will help you remember the elements themselves. You can also string the elements together to help you remember the order.
- This phrase doesn't need to be logical because it only serves to help you remember the elements. For example, you could say " Zebra yolong zinc” to remember the symbol for zinc/zinc, namely Zn.
- To remember the order of the elements, you can make sentences from a series of symbols of related elements. For example, to memorize Al Si P S Cl Ar, you can say, "How bad luck is to use CleAr shampoo."
Step 3. Associate each element with a picture
Pictures will help you remember elements and symbols faster than just memorizing the text. Connect each element with a picture that makes sense to you.
- Use images that relate to the elements. For example, for aluminum, you can use a foil image. For helium, you can use a balloon image.
- You can also use images according to the sound of the elements. For example, you could use a pirate image for Argon (Ar).
Step 4. Memorize the songs of the periodic table
You can compose your own songs or search for them on the internet. Try to find the latest version that already includes the new elements.
- ASAPScience has an updated version of the song that includes the latest elements.
- One well-known periodic table song is "The Elements" by Tom Lehrer.
Method 3 of 3: Testing Memory
Step 1. Fill in the blank table based on memory
After you've studied for a few days, search the internet for a blank periodic table. Try filling in the blanks with the elements in their place based on memory. After that, compare it to a regular table to see how many are correct.
Step 2. Download the periodic table to your phone
There are several apps that can help you learn elements, symbols, atomic numbers, and atomic weights. This application can be downloaded to your phone or tablet. Some good apps include:
- Memorize the Periodic Table
- NOVA Elements
- Periodic Table app by Socratica
- The Elements
Step 3. Play an online game to help you remember the elements
Some sites have online games where you can match elements with their symbols or fill in the blanks. The game can test your memory and improve your score before the big test. Some good games include:
- Scratch:
- Elemental Flash Cards Quiz:
- FunBrain:
Tips
- The earlier you start studying, the more successful you will be at memorizing the periodic table.
- You can use software like Mnemosyne, Anki or SuperMemo to help you remember the elements on the periodic table.
- Remember that the first letter of the element symbol is uppercase/capital, and the letters after it are lowercase.
