Chemistry is the science that identifies atoms and molecules as the basic units of nature and explains phenomena in terms of their behavior. Chemistry brings two unique ideas to the world. It tells us about the structure of matter on the unseen atomic and molecular level. Chemistry also explains the change of matter on an atomic and molecular level. Because we can't see atoms and molecules, chemistry expresses the unseen structure of matter and its changes symbolically using chemical symbols.

The chemical symbols that appear on any periodic table represent atoms of each element. It is often helpful to view each chemical symbol as an abstract way of visualizing unseen atoms. Each symbol can be seen as a tiny sphere that represents a particular kind of atom. If we are going to understand chemistry we must become "symbol minded." That is, every time we see a symbol we must visualize the unseen atom it represents. Recognizing symbols and names is a first step. Sometimes it is easier if you can use humor to help you remember.

In this Internet activity you will apply humor to the names and symbols of common elements by taking a quiz called Element Names and Symbols. Print and complete the quiz on a separate sheet of paper, and then check your answers by clicking on "answer page" at the bottom of the quiz.

Additional Activities

1. You can compare this classification scheme with the one found on page 38 of Addison-Wesley Chemistry, 5th edition. How are they the same? How are they different? Why are both valid?
   
   
2. The Classification of Matter worksheet asks you to classify common mixtures and chemicals.