The document discusses the key differences between atomic mass and atomic number, and how the modern periodic table is organized based on atomic number. It provides examples of the electronic configurations and valence electrons of elements in groups 1 and 2, including lithium, sodium, potassium, beryllium, and magnesium. The document also lists several topics covered in the chapter on the periodic table, such as the historical development of the periodic table from Dobereiner's triad to Mendeleev's table and the modern periodic table organized by atomic number.