Today, as “they” (being a group of scientists from around the world) announced two new elements for the periodic table, I am adding yet another online-only resource to learn more about it.
On Slate.com, Sam Kean provides some interesting, sometimes offbeat, context for each of the elements with his “Blogging the Periodic Table.”
Between Kean’s blog and the University of Nottingham’s YouTube series, you’ll be surprised how fun high-school chemistry can be.
I never learned the periodic table. I’m not proud of this, but I can’t go back in time to high school and change my course load now, can I?
What I can do, though, is watch the University of Nottingham School of Chemistry’s Periodic Table of Videos on YouTube and atone for my irresponsible educational decisions. Now I know what Strontium is.
I tried listening to songs about the periodic table, but they didn’t help at all.
Thanks to openculture.com for pointing the Periodic Table of Videos out. If you’re cheap and like smart stuff, openculture.com is for you.
I’ll admit it: I never learned the periodic table. I probably never will. But if you’re up for it, here are some songs to help you out.
1. They Might Be Giants, “Meet the Elements”
My children listen to this pretty much non-stop.
2. Tom Lehrer, “The Elements”
It’s the song that defines the genre.
3. “Periodic Table of Rock”
Isn’t this the guy from the first Freecreditreport.com band?
4. The “Learn the Periodic Table Song”
If you like Billy Joel, this one’s for you.
5. Peter Weartherall, “The Periodic Table Song”
Who knew that chemistry would be such fodder for children’s singers?
Mark Likes Music 