List of chemical elements

List of chemical elements provides a comprehensive overview of the chemical elements that are the fundamental constituents of matter. Each element is distinguished by its atomic number, which is the number of protons in its nucleus, and is listed in the Periodic Table of Elements. The elements are commonly classified by their properties into categories such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids. This article provides a brief overview of each element, including its symbol, atomic number, and typical uses.

Overview

The concept of chemical elements is foundational in the field of chemistry. An element is a substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. There are currently 118 confirmed elements, some of which are naturally occurring, while others are synthetically produced in laboratories.

List of Elements

Here is a list of some key chemical elements, their symbols, and atomic numbers:

Hydrogen

Symbol: H

Atomic Number: 1

Hydrogen is the lightest element and is primarily used in the production of ammonia and the refining of petroleum.

Helium

Symbol: He

Atomic Number: 2

Helium is a noble gas commonly used in balloons and as a cooling medium in nuclear reactors.

Lithium

Symbol: Li

Atomic Number: 3

Lithium is used in rechargeable batteries and in the treatment of bipolar disorder.

Carbon

Symbol: C

Atomic Number: 6

Carbon is essential to life and is the basis for organic chemistry. It is used in various forms such as graphite and diamond.

Oxygen

Symbol: O

Atomic Number: 8

Oxygen is crucial for respiration in most living organisms and is used in medical applications, metal cutting, and welding.

Iron

Symbol: Fe

Atomic Number: 26

Iron is a key component of steel and is essential for blood production in humans.

Gold

Symbol: Au

Atomic Number: 79

Gold is highly valued for its use in jewelry, electronics, and as an investment.

Uranium

Symbol: U

Atomic Number: 92

Uranium is primarily used as fuel in nuclear power plants and in nuclear weapons.

Classification

Elements are classified into different categories based on their physical and chemical properties:

Metals

Metals are typically shiny, malleable, and good conductors of electricity and heat. Examples include iron, copper, and aluminum.

Nonmetals

Nonmetals are not shiny and are poor conductors of electricity and heat. Examples include hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen.

Metalloids

Metalloids have properties that are intermediate between metals and nonmetals. Examples include silicon and arsenic.

See Also

• Periodic Table of Elements
• Chemical compound
• Atomic number
• Chemical property