Question

Why is the symbol $\mathrm{S}$ for Sulphur, but $\mathrm{Na}$ for Sodium and $\mathrm{Si}$ for Silicon?

Answer 1

Symbol:

• The abbreviations used for the lengthy names of elements are called symbols.
• The credit for introducing the symbol of elements goes to Jons Jacob Berzelius (1815), a Swedish chemist who used letters as symbols for elements.
• He suggested using the first letter of the name of the element as its symbol.
• For example, For sulphur we use the symbol $\mathrm{S}$.
• In certain cases, the elements are represented by some prominent letter of their Latin or German names.
• For example, Sodium is represented by $\mathrm{Na}$ derived from its Latin name Natrium.
• In some cases, we use the initial letter in capital together with a small letter from its name.
• For example, Silicon is represented by $\mathrm{Si}$.