WEEKLY WHINE

The GoobNet Periodic Table Challenge

Our recent series on the chemical elements was a huge success, but it reminded us that many people may not be familiar with every single element on the periodic table. [Shocking, we know. How do these people live with themselves?] Well, if you feel like you are in need of a refresher, why not take the GoobNet Periodic Table Challenge? This challenge, to be played out through five rounds, requires you to know the names, symbols, and atomic numbers of the elements on the periodic table, and even where they fit in relation to one another. How close can you come to a perfect score of 104?

This is the first round: Names. You will be given the atomic number, symbol, and periodic table position of an element. Type the name of the element [spelling matters], and press ENTER to lock it in within the twelve second limit. Correct answers are worth one point.

This is the second round: Symbols. You will be given the atomic number, name, and periodic table position of an element. Type the symbol of the element [spelling and capitalisation matter], and press ENTER to lock it in within the six second limit. Correct answers are worth two points.

This is the third round: Table Positions. You will be given the atomic number, symbol, and name of an element. Click the location on the periodic table below of the element within the six second time limit. Correct answers are worth three points.

This is the fourth round: Atomic Numbers. You will be given the symbol, name, and periodic table position of an element. Type the atomic number of the element, and press ENTER to lock it in within the six second limit. Correct answers are worth four points.

This is the final round: Two for One. You will be given two properties of an element – from among the atomic number, symbol, name, and periodic table position – and asked for one of the other two properties. Give the requested property of the element within the time limit. Correct answers are worth eight points.