First 20 Elements Of The Periodic Table: Importance, Atomic Number And Symbols!

First 20 Elements Of The Periodic Table: The atomic number and symbols are important in chemistry. The atomic number of elements gives us an idea about the atomic structure of elements, such as how many electrons and protons that particular element has. Below is the list of the first 20 elements of the periodic table along with its symbols and atomic numbers. 

Well, each element has its distinct properties owing to its atomic number, atomic mass, electronegativity and electron gain enthalpy. 

Importance Of Atomic Number In A Periodic Table

• Unique Identity: The atomic number is like a fingerprint for the element. It tells how many protons are there in the nucleus of an atom. Protons have a positive charge and each proton is unique for that element, so it essentially defines what element it is. 
• Organisation: The periodic table is made up based on increasing atomic number. This means that elements with similar chemical properties tend to be grouped. 
• Properties Prediction: The atomic number is the key determinant of an element’s physical and chemical properties. 

What Are Protons? 

A proton is a subatomic particle, a tiny building block that resides inside the nucleus of an atom, along with neutrons. They have a positive charge. 

What Are Neutrons?

Neutrons are subatomic particles found alongside protons in the nucleus of almost every atom. It has a neutral charge. 

What Are Electrons?

Electrons are fundamental subatomic particles, that whirl around the nucleus of an atom. They have a negative charge. 

What Does An Atomic Number Tell About The Element? 

• The atomic number of an element tells about the number of protons that exist inside the nuclei of an atom of that element and also the number of electrons that surround the nuclei. 
• The electronic configuration of an atomic number can be determined just by knowing the atomic number of the element. 

Why Are The First 20 Elements Of An Atomic Table Useful To Us? 

Take a look at these initial elements of the periodic table that are very important to us. 

• Oxygen: Oxygen has an important role in the respiration process. Respiration is an energy-producing mechanism that dictates the metabolism of most living organisms. 
• Carbon: Carbon consists of 18% of the human body. Many fossils and essential compounds contain carbon. 
• Aluminium: This element is used in the making of various products like utensils, window frames etc. 
• Phosphorus: This special element is used in the military to make weapons. 
• Calcium: Calcium helps in maintaining bone strength. 

Noble Gases In The First 20 Elements Of Atomic Table

• Noble gases are also called inert gases. Noble gases are present in the 18th group of atomic tables. They are known to be extremely non-reactive. 
• In the first 20 elements, the three noble gases are Helium (He), Neon (Ne), and Argon (Ar).

Now, that the students have got the notes, they can easily understand the concept of the first 20 elements of the periodic table. We are also providing the video lessons link for students to understand the concept easily. 

Video Lesson Links

• CBSE Class 11 Science Mock Tests By Subject-Matter Experts
• CBSE Class 12 Science Mock Tests By Subject-Matter Experts

Other Concept-Based Links 

• What Is Enthalpy: Definition, Importance And Applications!

• What Is Polarity? Definition, Meaning, Applications, Importance And Examples!