Periodic classification of elements

Abstract

IN comparing my arithmetical table1 with his adaptation of Mendeleef's short chart, A. A. Clifford2 states that a Periodic Table must show the variation in the properties of the elements with atomic number. This is an argument against short charts3, because they fail to retain beyond the third period the continuous variation of properties from active metal to active non-metal. Vertical relationships between the elements are very strong at the extreme right of the arithmetical table; traversing towards the left they weaken, and when the transitional elements are reached horizontal as well as vertical relationships are apparent; still farther to the left, horizontal relationships are most marked4. Other tables do not exhibit this important change in direction and strength of the chemical relationships. © 1960 Nature Publishing Group.