Abstract
IN none of the chemistry books or magazines to which I have access can I find any reference to a curious property of the chemical elements in connection with the Periodic Law. If instead of placing the elements as usual in seven vertical columns we arrange them at distances corresponding to the differences of their atomic weights, it will be found that they are disposed in curious curves. The following diagram will make my meaning clearer. Arranging the monads in a vertical column, and taking it for a base line, place Ca at a distance from K corresponding to the difference of their atomic weights; also treat Sr and Ba in the same way in relation to Rb and Cs. It will then be found that they are arranged on a curve terminating in Li, which is known to unite in itself the properties of the metals of the alkalies and those of the alkaline earths. Mg, Zn, and Cd also range themselves on a curve when measured from Na, Cu, and Ag.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
MURRAY, D. The Periodic Law. Nature 37, 247 (1888). https://doi.org/10.1038/037247a0
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/037247a0
Comments
By submitting a comment you agree to abide by our Terms and Community Guidelines. If you find something abusive or that does not comply with our terms or guidelines please flag it as inappropriate.