How are elements arranged in the periodic table?

• A. By alphabetical order of element names
• B. By increasing atomic number
• C. By increasing atomic mass
• D. By decreasing number of neutrons

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the periodic table is a systematic arrangement of elements based on their properties.
2. Recall that the key organizing principle of the modern periodic table is the atomic number, which is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus.
3. Recognize that elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number, not by alphabetical order, atomic mass, or neutron number.
4. Know that this arrangement leads to the periodic repetition of chemical properties, which is why elements in the same group (column) have similar characteristics.
5. Summarize that the periodic table's structure reflects increasing atomic number, which determines the element's identity and its position in the table.