There are only a few more one-letter symbols from the original Periodic Table, then I will be switching to the two-letter symbols. Finding and cataloging the numerous elements was a huge effort. Some elements were discovered several times before they became official. V for Vanadium is one of those storied natural elements. It was named for the Scandinavian Goddess of…
In chemistry, B symbolizes Boron. It has several forms. You may recognize it as a component of the cleaning solution, Borax. What you may not know, is that at low temperatures, it is a bad electrical conductor, but at high temperatures, it is a good electrical conductor. How can one item be both good and bad? I started refracting about…
I never set out by design to be obese. It just happened. I remember being fine right up to the point when external forces tried to define who I was and what I could do. It’s fair to say I subscribed to the belief there are always some things seemingly beyond my control. With this in mind, being overweight and…
I know now not to judge others on how they choose to work their weight-loss plan. My role is to support and learn from them. Losing weight is challenging but not impossible. Understanding how all the elements in The Periodic Table of TOPS need to fall in place should provide comfort for those difficult times. Iodine in chemistry is signified…
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the occasion to attend a few TOPS recognition events. It’s nice to hear from folks that they enjoy this series. As the table continues to be set, let me take the opportunity to introduce the next element used on my journey to a healthier lifestyle. In chemistry, the letter O symbolizes oxygen, the…
Setting the table for a formal banquet can be challenging. Making sure that the salad fork is on the correct side, the water glasses are filled, and family and friends are seated where there will be no problems. It’s nice if everyone gets along. Setting a Periodic Table of TOPS is equally challenging. As I mentioned, not all the basic…
The new Periodic Table of TOPS is coming along nicely. In the science world, all elements are not compatible or pleasant, such as S for sulfur. The smell of rotten eggs and caustic properties made this element a challenge to use when I was in the laboratory. Luckily, in TOPS Nation, S symbolizes Support, which provides a key basic element…