Chemical element
A chemical element is a substance that consists of only one type of atom, that is, all the atoms in the element contain the same number of protons. There are 118 known elements (an often used shortened form) which are considered to be the building blocks of matter. These are recorded and ordered in the periodic table.
The word comes from the Latin 'elementum', which means one of the four elements, because at that time it was thought that all creation was made up of earth, air, fire, and water.
The word element in construction terms can be understood to refer to a building element, the individual components of a building (as opposed to and at a different level to matter). In combination with other words it also takes on further meanings but still refers to a single part.
For more information see: Building elements.
The identity of a chemical element cannot be changed by any chemical reaction. However, a nuclear reaction can transmute one element into another one and new elements may yet be synthesised.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Shortage of high-quality data threatening the AI boom
And other fundamental issues highlighted by the Open Data Institute.
Data centres top the list of growth opportunities
In robust, yet heterogenous world BACS market.
Increased funding for BSR announced
Within plans for next generation of new towns.
New Towns Taskforce interim policy statement
With initial reactions to the 6 month policy update.
Heritage, industry and slavery
Interpretation must tell the story accurately.
PM announces Building safety and fire move to MHCLG
Following recommendations of the Grenfell Inquiry report.
Conserving the ruins of a great Elizabethan country house.
BSRIA European air conditioning market update 2024
Highs, lows and discrepancy rates in the annual demand.
50 years celebrating the ECA Apprenticeship Awards
As SMEs say the 10 years of the Apprenticeship Levy has failed them.
Nominations sought for CIOB awards
Celebrating construction excellence in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
EPC consultation in context: NCM, SAP, SBEM and HEM
One week to respond to the consultation on reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings framework.
CIAT Celebrates 60 years of Architectural Technology
Find out more #CIAT60 social media takeover.
The BPF urges Chancellor for additional BSR resources
To remove barriers and bottlenecks which delay projects.
Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers
English, maths and minimumun duration requirements reduced for a 10,000 gain.
A long term view on European heating markets
BSRIA HVAC 2032 Study.
Humidity resilience strategies for home design
Frequency of extreme humidity events is increasing.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
Skills for life : 10-16 February