An element is one of over 100 basic substances that make up everything in the universe. Every element is made of just one type of atom: gold is an element because it contains only gold atoms, and oxygen is an element because it contains only oxygen atoms. You can't break an element down into simpler substances through ordinary chemical reactions.

Scientists organize all known elements in the periodic table, which you've probably seen hanging in science classrooms. Each element has its own spot and symbol: H for hydrogen, C for carbon, Fe for iron. Some elements like oxygen and nitrogen fill the air you breathe. Others like calcium and iron are in your body. Gold, silver, and copper are elements that people have used for thousands of years.

The word also means a component or part of something larger. A story has elements like characters, setting, and plot. A successful basketball team needs elements like good passing, strong defense, and teamwork. When someone talks about the elements, they usually mean harsh weather conditions like rain, wind, and cold.

Scientists once thought earth, air, fire, and water were the basic elements of nature. While that turned out to be wrong, the idea that everything comes from simpler building blocks was right.