Final answer:
The periodic table is organized by atomic number, with groups and periods indicating elements with similar properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Elements in the periodic table are arranged by increasing atomic number. The atomic number is defined as the number of protons in an atom's nucleus and is unique to each element. Not only does the periodic table showcase the elements' atomic numbers, but it also highlights their atomic masses, symbols, and names. For instance, carbon is illustrated with the symbol C, an atomic number of six, and an atomic mass of 12.01.
In this tabular array, similar chemical and physical properties are grouped together in columns called groups, which number from 1 to 18. The seven horizontal rows are referred to as periods. Specific groups like the alkali metals and alkaline earth metals on the left of the table, and the halogens and noble gases on the right, exhibit distinctive chemistries. This systematic organization allows easy identification and understanding of element properties.