When is National Periodic Table Day?

It is observed on February 7 each year.

How do people observe National Periodic Table Day?

Explore the periodic table, learn element groups, or try an element quiz.

National Periodic Table Day — Obscure Holiday Calendar

Overview

National Periodic Table Day is observed annually on February 7th, celebrating the iconic arrangement of chemical elements and its crucial role in science. The day specifically commemorates John Newlands' publication of the Law of Octaves in 1865, an early precursor to the modern periodic system.

Observed each year on February 7, National Periodic Table Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

The observance on February 7 honors English chemist John Newlands, who presented his "Law of Octaves" in 1865, noting a periodicity in element properties when arranged by atomic weight.

The modern Periodic Table, primarily attributed to Dmitri Mendeleev, organizes elements by increasing atomic number and groups them by recurring chemical properties.

Quick facts

DateFebruary 7
TypeGeek / Tech
Great forTech teams, STEM clubs, Developers

Also on this date

Ways to observe

Review a periodic table and learn about element groups.
Identify elements used in household items.
Learn element symbols and families.
Explore how elements shape modern technology.
Use online periodic tables or element quizzes.
Learn why elements are arranged as they are.

Fun facts

The periodic table was first published in 1869 by Dmitri Mendeleev, who predicted elements not yet discovered.

Sources and attribution

Periodic Table Overview (Royal Society of Chemistry)

History of the Periodic Table (Britannica)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

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FAQ

When is National Periodic Table Day?: It is observed on February 7 each year.
What is National Periodic Table Day?: National Periodic Table Day is observed annually on February 7, celebrating the iconic arrangement of chemical elements and its crucial role in science. The day specifically commemorates John Newlands' publication of the Law of Octaves in 1865, an early precursor to the modern periodic system.
How do people observe National Periodic Table Day?: Explore the periodic table, learn element groups, or try an element quiz.

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