Modification and expansion of Mendeleev's periodic table

The periodic table of the chemical elements has provided guidance for the discovery of many elements since its formulation as a guiding principle 125 years ago. It has misled investigators on occasion into temporary excursions along erroneous routes to new elements. Even these tortuous paths, however, have eventually led to the correct destination. It is described, the part that the periodic table has played in the discovery of the man-made elements, especially the transuranium elements, and its possible future role. (author). 7 refs., 6 figs