A new chemical element is recognised

The periodic table grows by one to 112, to the bane of chemistry and physics students around the world.

From New Scientist:

For years, the space next to [Roentgenium at position 111] has been unceremoniously occupied by the letters Uub, which stand for ununbium, the Latin word for 112 that has stood as a placeholder.

That place is now filled, all it needs is a name. How about onehundredweightium? Grow into these trousers... >>

Regarding Antimony

I was sat at the bar the other night when my offline commenter, who was playing the quiz machine, shouted "Antimony".

"Ess bee" I answered.

Strangely I'd been asked the same question quite recently, so do this quick quiz.

If you need your memory jogging, remember the Chemistry in its element podcast and the Periodic Table of Videos.


And just for a laugh take a look at these cartoons.
Grow into these trousers... >>

Chemistry in its element #2

A quick update to Chemistry in its element - podcast.

See the Periodic Table of Videos for another viewpoint. A guy with great hair and a couple of well-educated nutcases enjoy playtime on video. You don't believe me, watch Na - sodium. They end up laughing like schoolkids.



And yes, I have done this 'experiment' myself. It's what sodium metal is for, isn't it? Grow into these trousers... >>

Chemistry in its element - podcast

Everyone should tune in to this podcast - Chemistry in its element.

It's a weekly series of short (5mins) descriptions of the properties and uses of the chemical elements, produced by The Naked Scientists for The Royal Society of Chemistry.


Very enjoyable so far, brief and pitched at a level which is easy-going but very informative. This week it's Antimony or Sb, element 51.

While we are here, take a deep breath and sing along with Tom Lehrer. Or, if you prefer something longer and more laid back, try George Hrab. Grow into these trousers... >>