118 Elements Explained: The Best Periodic Table Guide with Surprising Facts & Uses

Khushal Luniya

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The A-Z of Elements: 2025 Periodic Table Guide with 55320+ Fascinating Facts

The periodic table is not just a scientific chart; it is the foundational tool for understanding the building blocks of everything around us. From the air we breathe to the technology we use, every part of our daily life is connected to elements in the periodic table. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the introduction, structure, and practical uses of elements—unveiling fascinating facts and applications that make these elements so valuable.

Introduction of the Periodic Table

The Periodic Table is a scientific chart that arranges all known chemical elements in a tabular format based on their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. Developed by Dmitri Mendeleev in 1869, it helps scientists, students, and researchers understand elements and predict the properties of new ones. The layout reflects the periodic trends such as increasing atomic number, reactivity, electronegativity, and more. It’s divided into rows called periods and columns called groups or families.

Basics of the Periodic Table

• Periods: Horizontal rows (7 total) showing increasing atomic numbers.
• Groups: Vertical columns (18 total), each with similar chemical properties.
• Metals, Nonmetals, Metalloids: Classified based on conductivity, reactivity, and other physical/chemical properties.
• Atomic Number: Represents the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus.
• Atomic Mass: Average mass of atoms of an elements, accounting for isotopes.
• Elements Symbols: One- or two-letter abbreviations used universally.

1) Hydrogen (H)

• Symbol: H
• Atomic Number: 1
• Facts:
  • Lightest and most abundant element in the universe.
  • Forms water (H₂O) when bonded to oxygen.
  • Used as rocket fuel (e.g., SpaceX).
  • The Sun fuses hydrogen into helium.
  • Can exist as a plasma in stars.
• Uses: Fuel cells, ammonia production, hydrogenated oils.

2) Helium (He)

• Symbol: He
• Atomic Number: 2
• Facts:
  • Noble gas; non-reactive and colorless.
  • Second most abundant element in the universe.
  • Cools MRI machines to near absolute zero.
  • Voice changes when inhaled (high-pitched effect).
  • Mined from natural gas reserves.
• Uses: Balloons, welding, leak detection, space telescopes.

3) Lithium (Li)

• Symbol: Li
• Atomic Number: 3
• Facts:
  • Lightest metal; floats on water (but reacts violently).
  • Powers smartphones and EVs (lithium-ion batteries).
  • Treats bipolar disorder (mood stabilizer).
  • Found in igneous rocks and brine pools.
  • Turns flames crimson red in fireworks.
• Uses: Batteries, ceramics, nuclear fusion research.

4) Beryllium (Be)

• Symbol: Be
• Atomic Number: 4
• Facts:
  • Lightweight but extremely stiff (used in satellites).
  • Transparent to X-rays (used in radiation windows).
  • Highly toxic if inhaled.
  • Found in emeralds (beryl mineral family).
  • Used in particle accelerators.
• Uses: Aerospace alloys, X-ray equipment, nuclear reactors.

5) Boron (B)

• Symbol: B
• Atomic Number: 5
• Facts:
  • Essential for plant cell walls.
  • Borax (a boron compound) cleans laundry.
  • Neutron absorber in nuclear reactors.
  • Harder than diamond (in boron nitride form).
  • Used in bulletproof vests.
• Uses: Detergents, semiconductors, fiberglass.

6) Carbon (C)

• Symbol: C
• Atomic Number: 6
• Facts:
  • Basis of all known life (DNA, proteins).
  • Exists as graphite, diamond, and graphene.
  • Carbon-14 dates ancient fossils.
  • Fullerenes (nanotubes) are stronger than steel.
  • Greenhouse gas (CO₂) drives climate change.
• Uses: Steelmaking, plastics, jewelry, nanotechnology.

7) Nitrogen (N)

• Symbol: N
• Atomic Number: 7
• Facts:
  • Makes up 78% of Earth’s atmosphere.
  • Liquid nitrogen (-196°C) freezes instantly.
  • Key component of amino acids (proteins).
  • Used in explosives (TNT).
  • Laughing gas (N₂O) is a dental anesthetic.
• Uses: Fertilizers, food packaging, cryogenics.

8) Oxygen (O)

• Symbol: O
• Atomic Number: 8
• Facts:
  • 21% of Earth’s air; essential for respiration.
  • Ozone (O₃) protects from UV rays.
  • Most abundant element in Earth’s crust.
  • Supports combustion (fire needs oxygen).
  • Oxygen bars sell purified O₂ for “energy boosts.”
• Uses: Medicine (ventilators), welding, water purification.

9) Fluorine (F)

• Symbol: F
• Atomic Number: 9
• Facts:
  • Most reactive element (burns glass, water, and metals).
  • Added to toothpaste (sodium fluoride) to prevent cavities.
  • Used in Teflon (non-stick pans).
  • Pale yellow gas at room temperature.
  • Only forms negative ions (fluoride).
• Uses: Toothpaste, refrigerants, uranium enrichment.

10) Neon (Ne)

• Symbol: Ne
• Atomic Number: 10
• Facts:
  • Noble gas; glows red-orange in signs.
  • Fourth most abundant element in the universe.
  • Non-reactive (used in high-voltage indicators).
  • Discovered in 1898.
  • Named from Greek “neos” (new).
• Uses: Neon signs, lasers, cryogenics.

11) Sodium (Na)

• Symbol: Na
• Atomic Number: 11
• Facts:
  • Highly reactive; stored in oil.
  • Vital for nerve signals (Na⁺ ions).
  • Table salt = NaCl (sodium + chlorine).
  • Streetlights use sodium vapor (yellow glow).
  • Soft enough to cut with a knife.
• Uses: Food seasoning, soap, coolant in reactors.

12) Magnesium (Mg)

• Symbol: Mg
• Atomic Number: 12
• Facts:
  • Burns with a bright white flame (used in flares).
  • Essential for photosynthesis (chlorophyll).
  • Lightweight (used in aircraft alloys).
  • Epsom salt (MgSO₄) relieves muscle pain.
  • Eighth most abundant element in Earth’s crust.
• Uses: Alloys, fireworks, medicine, fertilizers.

13) Aluminum (Al)

• Symbol: Al
• Atomic Number: 13
• Facts:
  • Most abundant metal in Earth’s crust.
  • Lightweight yet strong (used in aircraft).
  • Resists corrosion (forms oxide layer).
  • Recyclable indefinitely.
  • Foil was once more valuable than gold!
• Uses: Cans, cars, electronics, construction.

14) Silicon (Si)

• Symbol: Si
• Atomic Number: 14
• Facts:
  • Second most abundant element in Earth’s crust.
  • Semiconductors (computer chips) rely on silicon.
  • Sand = silicon dioxide (SiO₂).
  • Silicones used in implants and lubricants.
  • Named after Latin “silex” (flint).
• Uses: Electronics, solar panels, glass, cosmetics.

15) Phosphorus (P)

• Symbol: P
• Atomic Number: 15
• Facts:
  • Glows in the dark (white phosphorus).
  • Key to DNA, ATP (energy currency of cells), and bones.
  • Matches and fertilizers contain phosphorus.
  • Discovered in urine by alchemists.
  • Red phosphorus is used in safety matches.
• Uses: Fertilizers, detergents, fireworks, steel production.

16) Sulfur (S)

• Symbol: S
• Atomic Number: 16
• Facts:
  • Bright yellow crystalline solid in its pure form
  • Smells like rotten eggs (hydrogen sulfide compound)
  • Essential for all living cells (amino acids cysteine and methionine)
  • Used in gunpowder and matches historically
  • Volcanic regions often have sulfur deposits
• Uses: Fertilizers, rubber vulcanization, sulfuric acid production, skin medications

17) Chlorine (Cl)

• Symbol: Cl
• Atomic Number: 17
• Facts:
  • Yellow-green gas at room temperature
  • Highly toxic in concentrated form
  • Used as chemical weapon in WWI
  • Table salt contains chlorine (sodium chloride)
  • Keeps swimming pools free of bacteria
• Uses: Water purification, PVC plastics, disinfectants, pharmaceuticals

18) Argon (Ar)

• Symbol: Ar
• Atomic Number: 18
• Facts:
  • Third most abundant gas in Earth’s atmosphere
  • Completely inert (noble gas)
  • Used in light bulbs to prevent filament oxidation
  • Discovered in 1894 by Lord Rayleigh and William Ramsay
  • Forms no known stable compounds
• Uses: Welding shielding gas, double-pane windows, laboratory inert atmospheres

19) Potassium (K)

• Symbol: K
• Atomic Number: 19
• Facts:
  • Softer than human fingernail at room temperature
  • Essential mineral for nerve function
  • Reacts violently with water
  • Bananas are rich in potassium
  • Named from “potash” (plant ashes)
• Uses: Fertilizers, soaps, gunpowder, substitute for sodium in low-salt diets

20) Calcium (Ca)

• Symbol: Ca
• Atomic Number: 20
• Facts:
  • Fifth most abundant element in Earth’s crust
  • Essential for bones and teeth
  • Milk is a good dietary source
  • Chalk and limestone are calcium compounds
  • Helps blood clotting
• Uses: Construction materials (cement, plaster), dietary supplements, antacids

21) Scandium (Sc)

• Symbol: Sc
• Atomic Number: 21
• Facts:
  • Rare earth metal
  • Discovered in 1879 in Scandinavia
  • Added to aluminum alloys for aerospace use
  • Used in some high-intensity stadium lights
  • More abundant on the Moon than Earth
• Uses: Sports equipment (bike frames, baseball bats), aerospace components, lasers

22) Titanium (Ti)

• Symbol: Ti
• Atomic Number: 22
• Facts:
  • As strong as steel but 45% lighter
  • Corrosion-resistant (used in ship hulls)
  • Biocompatible (used in medical implants)
  • Named after the Titans of Greek mythology
  • Abundant in moon rocks
• Uses: Aircraft components, medical implants, jewelry, paint pigment (white)

23) Vanadium (V)

• Symbol: V
• Atomic Number: 23
• Facts:
  • Named after Vanadis, Scandinavian goddess
  • Added to steel for extra strength
  • Some sea squirts concentrate vanadium
  • Exists in multiple colorful oxidation states
  • Possible use in vanadium redox batteries
• Uses: Steel alloys, catalysts, battery technology

24) Chromium (Cr)

• Symbol: Cr
• Atomic Number: 24
• Facts:
  • Gives rubies their red color
  • Chrome plating provides shiny, rust-resistant surfaces
  • Essential mineral in human nutrition
  • Named from Greek “chroma” (color)
  • Stainless steel contains chromium
• Uses: Metal plating, dyes and pigments, stainless steel production

25) Manganese (Mn)

• Symbol: Mn
• Atomic Number: 25
• Facts:
  • Essential for steel production
  • Important for brain and nerve function
  • Deep ocean nodules contain manganese
  • Used in ancient glassmaking to remove color
  • Photosynthesis requires manganese
• Uses: Steel alloys, batteries, fertilizers, animal feed additives

26) Iron (Fe)

• Symbol: Fe
• Atomic Number: 26
• Facts:
  • Most abundant element in Earth’s core
  • Essential for hemoglobin in blood
  • Fourth most common element in Earth’s crust
  • Rusts when exposed to oxygen and water
  • Wrought iron was used in ancient structures
• Uses: Steel production, magnets, dietary supplements, construction

27) Cobalt (Co)

• Symbol: Co
• Atomic Number: 27
• Facts:
  • Gives blue color to glass and ceramics
  • Essential for vitamin B12
  • Used in lithium-ion batteries
  • Named from German “kobold” (goblin)
  • Radioactive cobalt-60 used in cancer treatment
• Uses: Battery technology, pigments, radiotherapy, magnets

28) Nickel (Ni)

• Symbol: Ni
• Atomic Number: 28
• Facts:
  • US 5-cent coin contains 25% nickel
  • Meteorites often contain nickel-iron
  • Resists corrosion (used in plating)
  • Named from German “kupfernickel” (devil’s copper)
  • Some people have nickel allergies
• Uses: Stainless steel, coins, batteries, guitar strings

29) Copper (Cu)

• Symbol: Cu
• Atomic Number: 29
• Facts:
  • First metal used by humans (~8000 BCE)
  • Excellent electrical conductor
  • Statue of Liberty is copper (turned green from oxidation)
  • Essential trace element in diet
  • Antibacterial properties
• Uses: Electrical wiring, plumbing, cookware, coins, jewelry

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30) Zinc (Zn)

• Symbol: Zn
• Atomic Number: 30
• Facts:
  • Essential for immune system function
  • Galvanizing protects steel from rust
  • Zinc oxide used in sunscreen
  • Brass is copper-zinc alloy
  • Smells like wet paint when freshly exposed
• Uses: Galvanization, rubber manufacturing, dietary supplements, batteries

31) Gallium (Ga)

• Symbol: Ga
• Atomic Number: 31
• Facts:
  • Melts in your hand (29.76°C)
  • Used in high-temperature thermometers
  • Not found free in nature
  • Attacks other metals by diffusing into their lattice
  • Essential for blue LEDs
• Uses: Semiconductors, LEDs, solar panels, medical thermometers

32) Germanium (Ge)

• Symbol: Ge
• Atomic Number: 32
• Facts:
  • Semiconductor properties between silicon and tin
  • Transparent to infrared light
  • Named after Germany
  • Used in early transistors
  • Some organisms use it in place of phosphorus
• Uses: Fiber optics, infrared optics, solar cells, polymerization catalysts

33) Arsenic (As)

• Symbol: As
• Atomic Number: 33
• Facts:
  • Known as “the king of poisons”
  • Used in historical medicines
  • Some bacteria can breathe arsenic
  • Naturally occurs in groundwater
  • Turns copper alloys silver-colored
• Uses: Wood preservatives, semiconductors, lead-acid batteries

34) Selenium (Se)

• Symbol: Se
• Atomic Number: 34
• Facts:
  • Named after Greek moon goddess Selene
  • Essential micronutrient but toxic in excess
  • Photoconductive properties
  • Gives pink color to glass
  • Used in photocopiers historically
• Uses: Glass manufacturing, solar cells, dietary supplements, dandruff shampoos

35) Bromine (Br)

• Symbol: Br
• Atomic Number: 35
• Facts:
  • Only liquid nonmetal at room temperature
  • Red-brown vapor irritates eyes and throat
  • Used in flame retardants
  • Kills algae in swimming pools
  • Silver bromide used in photographic film
• Uses: Flame retardants, water purification, pharmaceuticals, photography

36) Krypton (Kr)

• Symbol: Kr
• Atomic Number: 36
• Facts:
  • Glows bright white in electric fields
  • Used to define the meter (1960-1983)
  • Reacts with fluorine under extreme conditions
  • Found in some energy-efficient bulbs
  • Named from Greek “kryptos” (hidden)
• Uses: Lighting, lasers, insulation windows

37) Rubidium (Rb)

• Symbol: Rb
• Atomic Number: 37
• Facts:
  • Melts just above body temperature (39.3°C)
  • Used in atomic clocks
  • Burns purple in flame tests
  • Extremely reactive with water
  • Found in tea leaves and coffee
• Uses: Vacuum tubes, atomic clocks, specialty glasses

38) Strontium (Sr)

• Symbol: Sr
• Atomic Number: 38
• Facts:
  • Gives red color to fireworks
  • Strontium-90 is radioactive fallout component
  • Hardens lead in car batteries
  • Used in toothpaste for sensitive teeth
  • Named after Scottish village Strontian
• Uses: Fireworks, glow-in-dark paints, medical imaging

39) Yttrium (Y)

• Symbol: Y
• Atomic Number: 39
• Facts:
  • Key component of red TV phosphors
  • Superconductors contain yttrium
  • Named after Swedish village Ytterby
  • Found in moon rocks
  • Makes aluminum alloys stronger
• Uses: LEDs, lasers, cancer treatments, camera lenses

40) Zirconium (Zr)

• Symbol: Zr
• Atomic Number: 40
• Facts:
  • Resistant to neutron radiation
  • Cubic zirconia is synthetic gemstone
  • Used in nuclear reactor cladding
  • Named from Arabic “zargun” (gold-colored)
  • Impervious to acid attacks
• Uses: Nuclear reactors, jewelry, surgical instruments

41) Niobium (Nb)

• Symbol: Nb
• Atomic Number: 41
• Facts:
  • Originally called columbium
  • Added to steel for oil/gas pipelines
  • Used in MRI machines
  • Superconducts at low temperatures
  • Named after Greek goddess Niobe
• Uses: Jet engines, MRI magnets, jewelry

42) Molybdenum (Mo)

• Symbol: Mo
• Atomic Number: 42
• Facts:
  • Essential for all higher life forms
  • Hardens and strengthens steel
  • Used in medieval swordmaking
  • Named from Greek “molybdos” (lead)
  • Key enzyme cofactor
• Uses: Alloy steels, lubricants, plant fertilizers

43) Technetium (Tc)

• Symbol: Tc
• Atomic Number: 43
• Facts:
  • First artificially produced element
  • All isotopes are radioactive
  • Used in medical imaging
  • Glows in the dark
  • Named from Greek “technetos” (artificial)
• Uses: Nuclear medicine, corrosion inhibitor

44) Ruthenium (Ru)

• Symbol: Ru
• Atomic Number: 44
• Facts:
  • Hardest platinum-group metal
  • Added to platinum for durability
  • Absorbs hydrogen unusually well
  • Named after Russia (Ruthenia)
  • Used in advanced solar cells
• Uses: Electrical contacts, jewelry, chemotherapy drugs

45) Rhodium (Rh)

• Symbol: Rh
• Atomic Number: 45
• Facts:
  • Most expensive precious metal
  • Reflects 80% of visible light
  • Catalytic converter component
  • Named from Greek “rhodon” (rose)
  • Doesn’t tarnish or corrode
• Uses: Catalytic converters, jewelry plating, optical instruments

46) Palladium (Pd)

• Symbol: Pd
• Atomic Number: 46
• Facts:
  • Key component in catalytic converters
  • Absorbs up to 900 times its volume in hydrogen
  • Rarer than gold and platinum
  • Discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston
  • Used in dental crowns and bridges
• Uses: Automotive catalysts, electronics, jewelry, hydrogen purification

47) Silver (Ag)

• Symbol: Ag
• Atomic Number: 47
• Facts:
  • Best electrical and thermal conductor of all metals
  • Naturally antibacterial
  • Used in photographic film for over a century
  • Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver
  • Tarnishes when exposed to sulfur compounds
• Uses: Jewelry, electronics, solar panels, medical applications

48) Cadmium (Cd)

• Symbol: Cd
• Atomic Number: 48
• Facts:
  • Highly toxic heavy metal
  • Produces brilliant yellow-orange pigments
  • Used in nickel-cadmium batteries
  • Byproduct of zinc production
  • Named after the Latin word for calamine
• Uses: Batteries, pigments, nuclear reactors, electroplating

49) Indium (In)

• Symbol: In
• Atomic Number: 49
• Facts:
  • Makes a “cry” when bent (like tin)
  • Essential for touchscreens and LCDs
  • Rarer than silver
  • Sticks to glass better than any other metal
  • Discovered through spectroscopy
• Uses: LCD displays, semiconductors, solders, nuclear reactors

50) Tin (Sn)

• Symbol: Sn
• Atomic Number: 50
• Facts:
  • Prevents corrosion in “tin cans” (actually steel)
  • Alloyed with copper to make bronze
  • “Tin cry” is the sound it makes when bent
  • Low melting point (232°C)
  • Resists water corrosion
• Uses: Food packaging, solder, bronze alloys, organ pipes

51) Antimony (Sb)

• Symbol: Sb
• Atomic Number: 51
• Facts:
  • Known since ancient times
  • Hardens lead for bullets
  • Flame retardant properties
  • Toxic in large amounts
  • Used in medieval alchemy
• Uses: Flame retardants, lead alloys, semiconductors, pigments

52) Tellurium (Te)

• Symbol: Te
• Atomic Number: 52
• Facts:
  • One of the rarest stable elements
  • Causes garlic breath when absorbed
  • Used in rewritable CDs/DVDs
  • Semiconductor properties
  • Named after Earth (tellus)
• Uses: Solar panels, thermoelectric devices, metallurgy

53) Iodine (I)

• Symbol: I
• Atomic Number: 53
• Facts:
  • Essential for thyroid function
  • Sublimes from solid to purple gas
  • Used as antiseptic (tincture of iodine)
  • Added to table salt to prevent deficiencies
  • Discovered in seaweed ash
• Uses: Disinfectants, nutrition, pharmaceuticals, photography

54) Xenon (Xe)

• Symbol: Xe
• Atomic Number: 54
• Facts:
  • Used in high-intensity headlights
  • First noble gas found to form compounds
  • Produces blue glow in plasma displays
  • Anesthesia properties
  • Found in trace amounts in atmosphere
• Uses: Lighting, medical anesthesia, space propulsion

55) Cesium (Cs)

• Symbol: Cs
• Atomic Number: 55
• Facts:
  • Most reactive alkali metal
  • Liquid at slightly above room temperature
  • Atomic clocks use cesium vibrations
  • Explodes violently in water
  • Used in infrared detectors
• Uses: Atomic clocks, drilling fluids, photoelectric cells

56) Barium (Ba)

• Symbol: Ba
• Atomic Number: 56
• Facts:
  • Used in “barium meals” for X-rays
  • Compounds glow in the dark
  • Absorbs X-rays effectively
  • Never found pure in nature
  • Named from Greek “barys” (heavy)
• Uses: Medical imaging, fireworks, glassmaking, rat poison

57) Lanthanum (La)

• Symbol: La
• Atomic Number: 57
• Facts:
  • First rare earth element
  • Used in hybrid car batteries
  • Makes glass more refractive
  • Named from Greek “lanthanein” (to lie hidden)
  • Component of mischmetal
• Uses: Camera lenses, hydrogen storage, petroleum refining

58) Cerium (Ce)

• Symbol: Ce
• Atomic Number: 58
• Facts:
  • Most abundant rare earth element
  • Used in self-cleaning ovens
  • Makes sparks in lighter flints
  • Changes color when oxidized
  • Named after asteroid Ceres
• Uses: Catalytic converters, glass polishing, lighter flints

59) Praseodymium (Pr)

• Symbol: Pr
• Atomic Number: 59
• Facts:
  • Creates yellow glass filters
  • Used in aircraft engines
  • Name means “green twin”
  • Component of didymium glass
  • Makes strong permanent magnets
• Uses: Aircraft alloys, studio lighting filters, magnets

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60) Neodymium (Nd)

• Symbol: Nd
• Atomic Number: 60
• Facts:
  • Makes strongest permanent magnets
  • Used in laser technology
  • Purple in solution form
  • Name means “new twin”
  • Critical for wind turbines
• Uses: Magnets, headphones, electric motors, lasers

61) Promethium (Pm)

• Symbol: Pm
• Atomic Number: 61
• Facts:
  • Only radioactive rare earth element
  • Glows pale blue/green in the dark
  • Named after the Titan Prometheus
  • Used in nuclear batteries for spacecraft
  • First identified in 1945 at Oak Ridge
• Uses: Nuclear batteries, luminous paint, thickness gauges

62) Samarium (Sm)

• Symbol: Sm
• Atomic Number: 62
• Facts:
  • Used in powerful permanent magnets
  • Absorbs neutrons exceptionally well
  • Named after mineral samarskite
  • Helps date meteorites (samarium-neodymium dating)
  • Turns flames pale yellow
• Uses: Magnets, nuclear reactors, cancer treatment

63) Europium (Eu)

• Symbol: Eu
• Atomic Number: 63
• Facts:
  • Most reactive rare earth metal
  • Makes red phosphors in TV screens
  • Named after continent Europe
  • Glows bright red under UV light
  • Used in euro banknote anti-counterfeiting
• Uses: TV/phone screens, fluorescent lamps, lasers

64) Gadolinium (Gd)

• Symbol: Gd
• Atomic Number: 64
• Facts:
  • Best element for MRI contrast agents
  • Unusual temperature magnetic properties
  • Named after chemist Johan Gadolin
  • Absorbs neutrons better than any element
  • Shows magnetocaloric effect
• Uses: MRI scans, nuclear reactors, computer memory

65) Terbium (Tb)

• Symbol: Tb
• Atomic Number: 65
• Facts:
  • Makes green phosphors for color TVs
  • Changes length in magnetic fields
  • Named after Swedish village Ytterby
  • Used in solid-state devices
  • Rare even among rare earths
• Uses: Sonar systems, fuel cells, electronic devices

66) Dysprosium (Dy)

• Symbol: Dy
• Atomic Number: 66
• Facts:
  • Critical for hybrid car motors
  • Name means “hard to get” in Greek
  • Absorbs neutrons effectively
  • Used in data storage devices
  • Makes lasers operate at high temperatures
• Uses: Electric vehicles, wind turbines, nuclear reactors

67) Holmium (Ho)

• Symbol: Ho
• Atomic Number: 67
• Facts:
  • Has highest magnetic strength
  • Used in microwave equipment
  • Named after Stockholm (Holmia)
  • Makes yellow glass filters
  • Rare even among rare earth elements
• Uses: Nuclear control rods, colorants, laser surgery

68) Erbium (Er)

• Symbol: Er
• Atomic Number: 68
• Facts:
  • Makes pink glass and porcelain
  • Essential for fiber optic cables
  • Named after Swedish village Ytterby
  • Used in laser eye surgery
  • Absorbs infrared light well
• Uses: Fiber optics, metallurgy, nuclear technology

69) Thulium (Tm)

• Symbol: Tm
• Atomic Number: 69
• Facts:
  • Rarest naturally occurring rare earth
  • Used in portable X-ray machines
  • Named after mythical Thule
  • Glows blue under UV light
  • Most expensive rare earth metal
• Uses: Medical X-rays, lasers, euro banknote security

70) Ytterbium (Yb)

• Symbol: Yb
• Atomic Number: 70
• Facts:
  • Used in atomic clocks
  • Improves stainless steel strength
  • Named after Swedish village Ytterby
  • Changes electrical resistance under stress
  • Helps calibrate stress gauges
• Uses: Atomic clocks, stress gauges, lasers

71) Lutetium (Lu)

• Symbol: Lu
• Atomic Number: 71
• Facts:
  • Last rare earth element
  • Used in petroleum refining
  • Named after ancient Paris (Lutetia)
  • Densest rare earth metal
  • Helps treat neuroendocrine tumors
• Uses: Cancer treatment, cracking crude oil, LED bulbs

72) Hafnium (Hf)

• Symbol: Hf
• Atomic Number: 72
• Facts:
  • Named after Copenhagen (Hafnia)
  • Excellent neutron absorber
  • Used in computer chips
  • Resists corrosion exceptionally well
  • Last stable element discovered (1923)
• Uses: Nuclear reactors, microprocessors, plasma cutting

73) Tantalum (Ta)

• Symbol: Ta
• Atomic Number: 73
• Facts:
  • Named after Tantalus of Greek myth
  • Resists acid attacks
  • Essential for smartphones
  • Used in surgical implants
  • Key conflict mineral
• Uses: Electronics, surgical tools, turbine blades

74) Tungsten (W)

• Symbol: W
• Atomic Number: 74
• Facts:
  • Highest melting point (3422°C)
  • Name means “heavy stone” in Swedish
  • Used in incandescent light bulbs
  • Essential for drill bits
  • Denser than lead
• Uses: Lighting, cutting tools, armor piercing

75) Rhenium (Re)

• Symbol: Re
• Atomic Number: 75
• Facts:
  • Last naturally occurring element found
  • Has highest boiling point
  • Used in jet engine turbines
  • Named after Rhine River
  • Extremely rare in Earth’s crust
• Uses: Jet engines, thermocouples, catalysts

76) Osmium (Os)

• Symbol: Os
• Atomic Number: 76
• Facts:
  • Densest naturally occurring element (22.59 g/cm³)
  • Forms toxic osmium tetroxide in air
  • Hardest metal in the platinum group
  • Used in fountain pen tips historically
  • Found in platinum ores
• Uses: Electrical contacts, instrument pivots, fingerprint detection

77) Iridium (Ir)

• Symbol: Ir
• Atomic Number: 77
• Facts:
  • Most corrosion-resistant metal
  • Abundant in meteorites (clue to dinosaur extinction)
  • Named after Iris (Greek rainbow goddess)
  • Melting point over 2400°C
  • Used in standard meter bar
• Uses: Spark plugs, crucibles, cancer treatment

78) Platinum (Pt)

• Symbol: Pt
• Atomic Number: 78
• Facts:
  • Catalytic converter essential
  • Doesn’t tarnish or corrode
  • 30 times rarer than gold
  • Used in pre-Columbian artifacts
  • Malleable enough to make fine wires
• Uses: Jewelry, laboratory equipment, chemotherapy drugs

79) Gold (Au)

• Symbol: Au
• Atomic Number: 79
• Facts:
  • Most malleable and ductile metal
  • Edible in thin sheets
  • Forms in supernova explosions
  • Never reacts with oxygen
  • Conducts electricity perfectly
• Uses: Electronics, dentistry, space technology

80) Mercury (Hg)

• Symbol: Hg
• Atomic Number: 80
• Facts:
  • Only liquid metal at room temperature
  • Ancient Chinese called “liquid silver”
  • Expands evenly with temperature
  • Extremely toxic to nervous system
  • Found in cinnabar ore
• Uses: Thermometers, fluorescent lights, gold mining

81) Thallium (Tl)

• Symbol: Tl
• Atomic Number: 81
• Facts:
  • Called “the poisoner’s poison”
  • Was used as rat poison
  • Detected through green flame test
  • Similar properties to lead
  • Used in early infrared detectors
• Uses: Semiconductor research, medical imaging

82) Lead (Pb)

• Symbol: Pb
• Atomic Number: 82
• Facts:
  • Used since Roman times for pipes
  • Blocks radiation effectively
  • Toxic even in small amounts
  • Last stable element
  • Name comes from Latin “plumbum”
• Uses: Batteries, radiation shielding, weights

83) Bismuth (Bi)

• Symbol: Bi
• Atomic Number: 83
• Facts:
  • Least toxic heavy metal
  • Forms rainbow-colored oxidation
  • Used in Pepto-Bismol
  • Expands when solidifying
  • Naturally diamagnetic
• Uses: Cosmetics, fire sprinklers, replacement for lead

84) Polonium (Po)

• Symbol: Po
• Atomic Number: 84
• Facts:
  • First element discovered by Marie Curie
  • Deadly radioactive (used in Litvinenko poisoning)
  • Named after Poland
  • Generates heat through decay
  • Found in tobacco leaves
• Uses: Static eliminators, space heat sources

85) Astatine (At)

• Symbol: At
• Atomic Number: 85
• Facts:
  • Rarest naturally occurring element
  • Entire Earth’s crust contains <30g
  • Shortest-lived element
  • Halogen but behaves like metal
  • Potential cancer treatment
• Uses: Nuclear medicine research

86) Radon (Rn)

• Symbol: Rn
• Atomic Number: 86
• Facts:
  • Heaviest noble gas
  • Second leading cause of lung cancer
  • Forms from radium decay
  • Used in earthquake prediction
  • Accumulates in basements
• Uses: Radiation therapy, geological studies

87) Francium (Fr)

• Symbol: Fr
• Atomic Number: 87
• Facts:
  • Second rarest natural element
  • Most unstable first 101 elements
  • Never more than 30g exists on Earth
  • Last discovered naturally occurring element
  • Named after France
• Uses: Scientific research only

88) Radium (Ra)

• Symbol: Ra
• Atomic Number: 88
• Facts:
  • Glows faint blue in dark
  • Once used in glow-in-dark paint
  • Discovered by Marie Curie
  • Extremely radioactive
  • Found in uranium ores
• Uses: Historical medical treatments

89) Actinium (Ac)

• Symbol: Ac
• Atomic Number: 89
• Facts:
  • Named from Greek “aktis” (ray)
  • Glows blue in dark
  • 150 times more radioactive than radium
  • Rare in nature
  • Used in neutron sources
• Uses: Scientific research, neutron production

Read More: Top 50 Most Unsolved and Hardest Math Equations in the World

90) Thorium (Th)

• Symbol: Th
• Atomic Number: 90
• Facts:
  • Named after Norse god Thor
  • Potential nuclear fuel
  • Three times more abundant than uranium
  • Used in high-end camera lenses
  • Naturally fluorescent
• Uses: Nuclear energy, aerospace alloys

91) Protactinium (Pa)

• Symbol: Pa
• Atomic Number: 91
• Facts:
  • One of the rarest naturally occurring elements
  • Glows faintly in the dark
  • Named from Greek “protos” (first) + actinium
  • Extremely toxic and radioactive
  • Found in uranium ores
• Uses: Scientific research only

92) Uranium (U)

• Symbol: U
• Atomic Number: 92
• Facts:
  • Main fuel for nuclear power
  • Discovered in 1789 in pitchblende
  • Naturally fluorescent
  • Denser than gold
  • Used in “depleted uranium” armor
• Uses: Nuclear reactors, military applications

93) Neptunium (Np)

• Symbol: Np
• Atomic Number: 93
• Facts:
  • First transuranic element
  • Named after planet Neptune
  • Forms colorful compounds
  • Byproduct in nuclear reactors
  • Used in neutron detection
• Uses: Nuclear research, neutron detectors

94) Plutonium (Pu)

• Symbol: Pu
• Atomic Number: 94
• Facts:
  • Key nuclear weapons material
  • Warm to the touch from radioactivity
  • Named after Pluto
  • Exists in six allotropic forms
  • Used in space probes
• Uses: Nuclear weapons, RTGs for space

95) Americium (Am)

• Symbol: Am
• Atomic Number: 95
• Facts:
  • Used in smoke detectors
  • Named after the Americas
  • Glows blue under UV light
  • Produced in nuclear reactors
  • First made in 1944
• Uses: Smoke detectors, industrial gauges

96) Curium (Cm)

• Symbol: Cm
• Atomic Number: 96
• Facts:
  • Named after Marie and Pierre Curie
  • Glows red in the dark
  • Alpha particle emitter
  • Used in Mars rover power sources
  • Million times rarer than gold
• Uses: Spacecraft power sources

97) Berkelium (Bk)

• Symbol: Bk
• Atomic Number: 97
• Facts:
  • Named after Berkeley, California
  • First made in 1949
  • Only micrograms produced yearly
  • Radioactive metal
  • Used to make heavier elements
• Uses: Scientific research only

98) Californium (Cf)

• Symbol: Cf
• Atomic Number: 98
• Facts:
  • Neutron emitter
  • Named after California
  • Used in gold/silver detection
  • Extremely radioactive
  • Costs millions per gram
• Uses: Neutron sources, cancer treatment

99) Einsteinium (Es)

• Symbol: Es
• Atomic Number: 99
• Facts:
  • Named after Albert Einstein
  • Found in nuclear test debris
  • First identified in 1952
  • Short half-life
  • Forms colorful compounds
• Uses: Scientific research only

100) Fermium (Fm)

• Symbol: Fm
• Atomic Number: 100
• Facts:
  • Named after Enrico Fermi
  • Found in hydrogen bomb debris
  • Cannot be produced in weighable amounts
  • Radioactive metal
  • First made in 1952
• Uses: Nuclear physics research

101) Mendelevium (Md)

• Symbol: Md
• Atomic Number: 101
• Facts:
  • Named after Dmitri Mendeleev
  • First made one atom at a time
  • Radioactive synthetic metal
  • Short half-life (minutes)
  • Created in 1955
• Uses: Scientific research only

102) Nobelium (No)

• Symbol: No
• Atomic Number: 102
• Facts:
  • Named after Alfred Nobel
  • Controversial discovery
  • Only atoms ever produced
  • Radioactive metal
  • First claimed in 1957
• Uses: Scientific research only

103) Lawrencium (Lr)

• Symbol: Lr
• Atomic Number: 103
• Facts:
  • Named after Ernest Lawrence
  • Last actinide element
  • Radioactive synthetic metal
  • Half-life under 3 minutes
  • First made in 1961
• Uses: Nuclear physics research