Kean states that life on Earth is carbon-based but that some science fiction writers have speculated alien life-forms might be based on silicon, the element below carbon on the periodic table. He describes the different parts of the period table, which contain groups of elements such as noble gases, halogens, rare earths, acids, alkalis, and transition metals. Kean then explains the structure of atoms, which are made up of particles called protons, neutrons, and electrons. He also explains that for the elements, “geography is destiny,” meaning that their position on the periodic table determines what properties they have. Kean explains basic features of the table, such as the fact that every element is necessary-if a single one were removed, the whole thing would no longer make sense. Most people are familiar with the table but they might be intimidated or uninspired by it. In The Disappearing Spoon, Kean hopes to tell stories about the ways in which the periodic table interacts with human culture. Discovering mercury was an element prompted his interest in the periodic table. In the introduction, Kean recalls how he was fascinated by the mercury inside thermometers as a child.
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