The most dangerous elements on the periodic table - Shannon Odell
427,871 Views
1,496 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Within the periodic table loom many potential hazardous elements. Some elements are dangerous due to their toxicity. Others are dangerous because of how they respond, react, or even explode in the outside environment. And perhaps the most threatening elements are those that silently emit energy. So, which substances on the periodic table are the most dangerous? Shannon Odell investigates.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
People often associate the word “chemical” with “danger,” but only certain elements on the periodic table (all of which fall into the category of “chemical”), present hazards. Read “The periodic table of danger” to understand exactly which elements to look out for, and why.
For additional information, read this article from ThoughtCo., which explains the difference between “radioactivity,” “toxicity,” and “reactivity.” All of those traits, when exhibited in different elements, present dangers to those who handle them—but each in widely varying ways.
And if you happen to be a history buff, learn more here about the link between mercury poisoning and the popular colloquial phrase, “mad as a hatter.”
For additional information, read this article from ThoughtCo., which explains the difference between “radioactivity,” “toxicity,” and “reactivity.” All of those traits, when exhibited in different elements, present dangers to those who handle them—but each in widely varying ways.
And if you happen to be a history buff, learn more here about the link between mercury poisoning and the popular colloquial phrase, “mad as a hatter.”
About TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Script Writer Shannon Odell
- Director Anton Bogaty
- Narrator Pen-Pen Chen
- Composer Cem Misirlioglu
- Sound Designer Cem Misirlioglu
- Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
- Produced by Abdallah Ewis
- Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
- Fact-Checker Charles Wallace
