periodic law

noun

: a law in chemistry: the elements when arranged in the order of their atomic numbers show a periodic variation of atomic structure and of most of their properties

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of periodic law was in 1872

Dictionary Entries Near periodic law

Cite this Entry

“Periodic law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periodic%20law. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

periodic law

noun
: a law in chemistry: the elements when arranged in the order of their atomic numbers show a periodic variation of atomic structure and of most of their properties

called also Mendeleev's law

More from Merriam-Webster on periodic law

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!