Nomenclature Of Elements With Atomic Number

Q: What is the 100th element?

Fermium is a synthetic chemical element; it has symbol Fm and atomic number 100.

Edited By Shivani Poonia | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 05:58 PM IST

The IUPAC nomenclature system offers a globally consistent approach for naming elements and compounds based on their atomic structure—primarily the number of protons and neutrons—which promotes clear communication among scientists, educators, and researchers. Hydrogen (H), for example, has one proton, while helium (He) has two. Beyond elemental names, IUPAC defines rules for naming chemical compounds, enabling precise interpretation of molecular structures and reactions—an essential skill for fields such as medicine, environmental science, and pharmaceuticals.

Nomenclature Of Elements With Atomic Number

Building on this, Mendeleev’s periodic table, introduced in 1869, organized elements by rising atomic weight and revealed repeating patterns in properties, leading him to leave gaps for then-undiscovered “eka‑elements.” His predictions for elements like gallium, scandium, and germanium were later validated, confirming the “periodic law.” Though hydrogen’s placement, isotopes, and certain weight-based anomalies posed challenges, the later shift to atomic‑number ordering (Moseley’s revision) resolved these issues.

Mastery of IUPAC nomenclature and periodic trends—especially for JEE Main, BITSAT, SRMJEE, WBJEE, BCECE—is vital for solving exam questions related to structure, bonding, and chemical behavior.

IUPAC proposed a system for naming elements with Z > 100. By using these rules as follows-

The names are derived by using roots for the three digits in an atomic number of the element and adding the ending-mum. The roots for the numbers are:

Digit	Name	Abbreviation
0	nil	n
1	un	u
2	bi	b
3	tri	t
4	quad	q
5	pent	p
6	hex	h
7	sept	s
8	oct	o
9	enn	e

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In some cases the names are shortened; bi ium and tri ium are shortened to bium and trium respectively, and enn nil is shortened to ennil.

The symbol for the element is made from the first letters of the roots which make up the name. The strange mixture of Latin and Greek roots has been chosen to ensure that the symbols are all different.

Nomenclature of Elements with Atomic Number Above 100
Atomic Number	Name according to IUPAC nomenclature	Symbol	IUPAC Official Name	IUPAC Symbol
101	Unnilunium	Unu	Mendelevium	Md
102	Unnilbium	Unb	Nobelium	No
103	Unniltrium	Unt	Lawrencium	Lr
104	Unnilquadium	Unq	Rutherfordium	Rf
105	Unnilpentium	Unp	Dubnium	Db
106	Unnilhexium	Unh	Seaborgium	Sg
107	Unnilseptium	Uns	Bohrium	Bh
108	Unniloctium	Uno	Hassium	Hs
109	Unnilennium	Une	Meitnerium	Mt
110	Ununnillium	Uun	Darmstadtium	Ds
111	Unununnium	Uuu	Roentgenium	Rg
112	Ununbium	Uub	Copernicium	Cn
113	Ununtrium	Uut	Nihonium	Nn
114	Ununquadium	Uuq	Flerovium	Fl
115	Ununpentium	Uup	Moscovium	Mc
116	Ununhexium	Uuh	Livermorium	Lv
117	Ununseptium	Uus	Tennessine	Ts
118	Ununoctium	Uuo	Oganesson	Og

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the atomic number of the element with IUPAC is Ununtrium?

Un refers to 1 and tri refers to 3, the Ununtrium element has an atomic number is 113.

2. What is the IUPAC nomenclature for the atomic number 107?

The IUPAC nomenclature for the atomic number 107 is Unnilseptium.

3. Why all names end with "-ium"?

The "-ium" suffix ensures linguistic consistency and follows historical naming conventions for metals. In revised rules, new halogens and noble gases may use “‑ine” or “‑on” with traditional suffixes (e.g., tennessine, oganesson).

4. What is the IUPAC official name of the element having atomic numbers 101, and 102?

IUPAC's official names of elements with atomic numbers 101 and 102 are Mendelevium and Nobelium.

5. What is the atomic number of the element named but not discovered below Radium?

Unbinilium, also known as eka-radium or element 120, is the hypothetical chemical element in the periodic table with the symbol Ubn and atomic number 120. It is placed below Radium.

6. Can different groups propose different names for the same element?

Yes, historical disputes have occurred (e.g., element 104 had both “Rutherfordium” and “Kurchatovium”). To resolve these, IUPAC implemented systematic naming and eventually selected a consensus official name.

7. What is the 100th element?

Fermium is a synthetic chemical element; it has symbol Fm and atomic number 100.

8. How are newly discovered elements named?

Newly discovered elements are initially given temporary systematic names and symbols based on their atomic numbers. For example, element 118 was temporarily called Ununoctium (Uuo). Later, discoverers propose permanent names, often honoring scientists, places, or mythological concepts. These names must be approved by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC).

9. What is the IUPAC, and what role does it play in element nomenclature?

IUPAC stands for the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry. It plays a crucial role in element nomenclature by establishing and maintaining standards for naming chemical elements and compounds. IUPAC ensures consistency in chemical naming across the global scientific community and approves official names and symbols for newly discovered elements.

10. How does the naming of transuranium elements differ from other elements?

Transuranium elements (elements with atomic numbers greater than 92) are typically named differently because they are synthetic and not found naturally on Earth. Their names often honor scientists, research institutions, or locations related to their discovery. The naming process is more formalized, involving proposals to and approval by IUPAC, unlike many naturally occurring elements named historically.

11. What is the significance of the atomic number in element nomenclature?

The atomic number is crucial in element nomenclature as it uniquely identifies each element. It represents the number of protons in an atom's nucleus, which determines the element's identity. Elements are arranged in the periodic table according to their atomic numbers, providing a systematic way to organize and name elements.

12. Why are some elements named after countries or regions?

Elements are sometimes named after countries or regions to honor the place of their discovery or the nationality of their discoverers. For example, 'Polonium' was named after Poland, the home country of Marie Curie. 'Germanium' honors Germany. This practice recognizes the contributions of different nations to scientific advancement and adds geographical and historical context to the periodic table.

13. Why do elements have both names and symbols?

Elements have both names and symbols for convenience and standardization. Names are typically longer and more descriptive, while symbols are short, usually one or two letters, making them easier to use in chemical formulas and equations. This dual system allows for clear communication in both written and spoken chemistry.

14. How are element symbols determined?

Element symbols are usually derived from the first one or two letters of the element's name, either in English or its original language. For example, 'H' for Hydrogen, 'He' for Helium. In some cases, symbols come from Latin names, like 'Au' for Gold (Aurum) or 'Fe' for Iron (Ferrum). When conflicts arise, a different letter from the name may be used.

15. Why do some elements have names that don't match their symbols?

Some elements have symbols that don't match their English names due to historical reasons or their derivation from other languages. For instance, 'Na' for Sodium comes from its Latin name 'Natrium', and 'W' for Tungsten comes from its German name 'Wolfram'. This preserves the element's historical or cultural significance.

16. How do atomic numbers relate to an element's position in the periodic table?

Atomic numbers directly determine an element's position in the periodic table. Elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number from left to right and top to bottom. This arrangement groups elements with similar properties into columns (groups) and places elements with the same number of electron shells into rows (periods).

17. Why are some element names derived from Latin or Greek?

Many element names are derived from Latin or Greek due to the historical importance of these languages in science and the Western academic tradition. These classical languages provide a rich source of descriptive terms and allow for the creation of systematic names. For example, 'Hydrogen' comes from Greek words meaning "water-forming," describing its role in producing water when burned.

18. What is the significance of element symbols being one or two letters?

Element symbols are limited to one or two letters to keep them concise and easily distinguishable in chemical formulas and equations. This brevity allows for quick writing and reading of chemical information. Single-letter symbols are used for common elements discovered early (like H, C, N, O), while two-letter symbols accommodate the growing number of elements while maintaining uniqueness.

19. How do element names reflect their properties or discovery?

Element names often reflect their properties, discovery circumstances, or cultural significance. For example, 'Chlorine' comes from the Greek word for 'pale green', describing its color. 'Californium' is named after the place of its discovery. 'Einsteinium' honors physicist Albert Einstein. These names provide insights into the element's nature or the history of its discovery.

20. Why are some elements named after mythological figures?

Elements are sometimes named after mythological figures to add cultural depth and poetic significance to scientific nomenclature. For instance, 'Titanium' is named after the Titans of Greek mythology, suggesting strength. 'Promethium' references Prometheus, who gave fire to humans, reflecting the element's luminescent properties. This practice connects science with cultural heritage and makes element names more memorable.

21. How does the atomic number influence an element's chemical properties?

The atomic number, which determines the number of protons in an atom's nucleus, directly influences an element's chemical properties. It determines the number of electrons in a neutral atom, which in turn affects the element's electron configuration, bonding behavior, and reactivity. Elements with similar outer electron configurations (usually those in the same group) tend to have similar chemical properties.

22. What is the relationship between an element's name, symbol, and atomic number?

An element's name, symbol, and atomic number are uniquely linked identifiers. The atomic number is the fundamental identifier, determining the element's identity and properties. The name and symbol are human-friendly labels assigned to that atomic number. While names and symbols may have linguistic or historical origins, the atomic number is a consistent, universal reference point in the periodic table.

23. How do isotopes affect element nomenclature?

Isotopes don't typically affect the basic nomenclature of elements, as all isotopes of an element have the same atomic number and therefore the same name and symbol. However, when specifying particular isotopes, the mass number (total number of protons and neutrons) is often added as a superscript before the element symbol, like ²³⁵U for uranium-235.

24. How does the history of an element's discovery influence its name?

The history of an element's discovery often greatly influences its name. Many elements are named after their discoverers (e.g., Curium for Marie and Pierre Curie), the place of discovery (e.g., Berkelium for Berkeley, California), or properties observed during discovery (e.g., Iodine from the Greek for 'violet'). These names preserve the story of the element's discovery, adding historical context to the periodic table.

25. How does the pronunciation of element names vary across languages?

While element symbols remain consistent across languages, the pronunciation of element names can vary significantly. For example, 'Aluminum' in American English is 'Aluminium' in British English. Some languages may adapt element names to fit their phonetic systems. However, the scientific community generally uses a standardized pronunciation in international contexts to ensure clear communication.

26. How do element symbols contribute to the language of chemistry?

Element symbols form a crucial part of the language of chemistry. They allow for concise representation of elements in chemical formulas and equations. Symbols transcend language barriers, enabling scientists worldwide to communicate chemical information efficiently. They also serve as building blocks for more complex chemical nomenclature, such as in naming compounds or describing reactions.

27. Why are some elements named after colors, and how does this relate to their properties?

Some elements are named after colors due to their distinctive appearance or the color of their compounds. For example, 'Chlorine' comes from the Greek for 'pale green', 'Iodine' from 'violet', and 'Rubidium' from 'deep red'. These names often relate to the element's physical properties or the characteristics of its common compounds, providing a quick, memorable reference to the element's nature.

28. How does the concept of oxidation states relate to element nomenclature?

While oxidation states don't directly influence element names or symbols, they play a role in naming compounds containing those elements. For elements that can exist in multiple oxidation states, Roman numerals are often used in compound names to specify the state. For example, Iron(II) chloride vs. Iron(III) chloride. Understanding oxidation states is crucial for correctly naming and understanding many inorganic compounds.

29. Why are some elements known by different names in different countries?

Some elements have different names in different countries due to historical, linguistic, or cultural reasons. For example, 'Tungsten' is called 'Wolfram' in many European countries, reflecting its German origin. 'Nitrogen' is 'Azote' in French. These variations highlight the importance of standardized chemical symbols for clear international communication, as symbols remain consistent regardless of the local name.

30. How does the concept of valence electrons relate to element nomenclature?

Valence electrons, while not directly determining element names, play a significant role in grouping elements in the periodic table. Elements in the same group often have similar valence electron configurations, leading to similar chemical properties. This grouping often results in similar naming conventions, such as the "-ine" ending for halogens or "-on" for noble gases, reflecting their shared valence electron characteristics.

31. What is the significance of element names derived from celestial bodies?

Element names derived from celestial bodies (like Helium from 'helios', the Greek word for sun, or Selenium from 'selene', meaning moon) often reflect the circumstances of their discovery or properties. These names add a cosmic dimension to chemistry, connecting earthly elements to the broader universe. They also serve as reminders of the historical methods of element discovery, such as spectroscopic analysis of light from celestial bodies.

32. How does isotopic notation relate to element nomenclature?

Isotopic notation extends basic element nomenclature by specifying the mass number (total protons and neutrons) of a particular isotope. While it doesn't change the element's name or symbol, it adds crucial information. For example, ¹⁴C represents the carbon-14 isotope. This notation is essential in fields like radiochemistry and nuclear physics, where distinguishing between isotopes of the same element is crucial.

33. Why is it important to understand the relationship between an element's properties and its name?

Understanding the relationship between an element's properties and its name enhances chemical intuition and memory. Many element names reflect key properties (e.g., Argon from 'argos', meaning lazy, due to its non-reactivity), discovery methods, or historical uses. This connection helps chemists and students quickly recall important characteristics of elements, facilitating problem-solving and conceptual understanding in chemistry.

34. How does the periodic table organize element nomenclature?

The periodic table organizes elements by atomic number, which is fundamental to element nomenclature. It groups elements with similar properties into columns (groups) and arranges them in rows (periods) based on their electron configurations. This organization helps in understanding trends in element properties and provides a systematic framework for naming and symbolizing elements, especially newly discovered ones.

35. What role does electron configuration play in element nomenclature?

While electron configuration doesn't directly determine element names or symbols, it plays a crucial role in organizing elements in the periodic table, which influences nomenclature. Elements in the same group often have similar names (like halogens ending in "-ine" or noble gases ending in "-on") due to their similar outer electron configurations and chemical properties.

36. How are elements with atomic numbers above 100 typically named?

Elements with atomic numbers above 100 are typically named using a systematic approach. Their names are derived from their atomic numbers using specific prefixes for each digit (e.g., 'un' for 1, 'bi' for 2, 'tri' for 3, etc.) and the suffix '-ium'. For example, element 101 was temporarily called Unnilunium. Once officially recognized, they're given permanent names, often honoring scientists or places.

37. Why is it important to have a standardized system for element nomenclature?

A standardized system for element nomenclature is crucial for clear, unambiguous communication in chemistry worldwide. It ensures that scientists, educators, and students can refer to elements consistently, regardless of their native language or location. This standardization facilitates international collaboration, accurate documentation in research and industry, and effective teaching and learning of chemistry.

38. What is the significance of element groups having similar name endings?

Elements in the same group often have similar name endings to reflect their shared chemical properties. For example, halogens end in "-ine" (Fluorine, Chlorine), and noble gases end in "-on" (Neon, Argon). This naming convention helps chemists quickly identify an element's likely properties and behavior based on its name, facilitating prediction and understanding in chemistry.

39. How do atomic mass and atomic number differ in their importance to element nomenclature?

Atomic number is crucial in element nomenclature as it uniquely identifies each element and determines its position in the periodic table. Atomic mass, while important for understanding an element's properties, doesn't directly influence its name or symbol. However, atomic mass can be used to distinguish between isotopes of an element when necessary, using notations like ¹⁶O for oxygen-16.

40. Why are some element names controversial or subject to change?

Element names can be controversial or subject to change due to disputes over discovery priority, cultural sensitivities, or evolving naming conventions. For example, element 104 was the subject of the "Transfermium Wars" naming dispute between American and Soviet scientists. Names may also change to better reflect modern values or to standardize nomenclature across the periodic table.

41. What is the significance of the 'systematic element name' in nomenclature?

Systematic element names are temporary names given to newly synthesized elements before they receive an official name. These names are based on the element's atomic number, using specific prefixes for each digit. For example, element 118 was temporarily called 'Ununoctium' (Un-un-oct-ium). This system ensures that new elements can be unambiguously referred to in scientific literature before their official naming.

42. What role do prefixes and suffixes play in element nomenclature?

Prefixes and suffixes in element nomenclature often indicate the element's group or properties. For instance, the suffix "-ium" is common for metals, "-on" for noble gases, and "-ine" for halogens. Prefixes like "trans-" in transuranium elements indicate their position relative to uranium in the periodic table. These affixes help chemists quickly identify an element's likely characteristics based on its name.

43. How does the nomenclature of artificial elements differ from naturally occurring ones?

The nomenclature of artificial elements often differs from naturally occurring ones in that they are more likely to be named after scientists, institutions, or places related to their synthesis. They also often go through a more formal naming process involving IUPAC. Initially, they receive systematic names based on their atomic numbers before being assigned permanent names, a process not typically seen with naturally occurring elements.

44. Why is it important to understand both full names and symbols of elements?

Understanding both full names and symbols of elements is crucial for comprehensive chemical literacy. Full names often provide insight into an element's properties or discovery history, while symbols are essential for writing chemical formulas and equations efficiently. Knowing both allows for fluency in chemical communication, whether in detailed discussions (using full names) or concise scientific notation (using symbols).

45. How does the periodic table's structure reflect element nomenclature?

The periodic table's structure closely reflects element nomenclature. Elements are arranged by increasing atomic number, which is fundamental to their identity and naming. The table's grouping of elements with similar properties (in columns) often corresponds to similarities in naming conventions (e.g., halogens, noble gases). The table's layout also helps in understanding the naming patterns of elements across periods and groups.

46. What is the significance of element names ending in "-ium"?

The "-ium" suffix is commonly used for metallic elements, particularly those discovered more recently. It serves as a standard ending for many element names, providing consistency in nomenclature. However, not all metals end in "-ium" (e.g., gold, silver), and some non-metals use this suffix (e.g., helium), reflecting the historical development of element naming conventions.

47. How do atomic orbitals relate to element nomenclature and the periodic table?

While atomic orbitals don't directly influence element names, they play a crucial role in determining an element's position in the periodic table, which in turn affects nomenclature patterns. The periodic table is organized based on electron configurations, which are determined by atomic orbitals. This organization leads to elements with similar outer orbital structures being grouped together, often resulting in similar naming conventions within groups.

48. How does the nomenclature of lanthanides and actinides differ from other elements?

Lanthanides and actinides, also known as f-block elements, have a unique nomenclature pattern. Lanthanides are named after lanthanum, with many ending in "-ium". Actinides are named after actinium, also often ending in "-