Books in The Periodic Table series

Why are the gases of group 18 called the noble gases? How do krypton bulbs, neon lights, and argon lasers work? What are radon seeds and radon daughters? Find out the answers to these and other fascinating questions in ‘Neon and the Noble Gases’. This book explores how these gases that have no color, no odor, and hardly ever form compounds with other elements are part of the chemical “life” of Earth.

This series uses a common or well-known element to look at the groups of the periodic table and to show the similarities and differences between elements. It uses full-colour illustration of the periodic table and shows the chemical symbol for each element in place, alongside its neighbours. Chemical formulae for common compounds are also shown. Information boxes and tables contain listings of facts and figures. Chemical reactions are interpreted as word equations, and timelines chart the history and discovery of the elements.

Hydrogen is one of the most common but deadly and misunderstood elements on the periodic table. This invisible, yet flammable gas surrounds us all day long. But what is it? This compelling book explores the fascinating world of hydrogen and shows how it fits into the periodic table. From the discovery of hydrogen to its atomic makeup and everyday uses, this element’s complex chemistry is made simple and clear in this book.