THE year 1840 saw the birth of the two Swedish chemists, Per Theodor Cleve and Lars Fredrik Nilson, the former of whom was born at Stockholm on February 10. Cleve was the son of a merchant, Nilson ...

His idea was at first ridiculed, but became prominent when in 1869 Mendeleeff and independently Lothar Meyer presented the socalled “natural system” or periodic system of the elements.

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the ...