Each colum of the periodic table is

referred to as a group or a family.

Each column of the periodic table is called a group or a family. There are 18 groups in total. The elements within each group share similar chemical properties and have the same number of valence electrons. The groups are numbered from 1 to 18, and some groups also have specific names, such as the alkali metals (Group 1), alkaline earth metals (Group 2), halogens (Group 17), and noble gases (Group 18).

a group or a family. The periodic table is a way to organize and classify the elements based on their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. The columns of the periodic table represent groups or families of elements that share similar chemical characteristics.

To determine the number of columns in the periodic table, you can simply count the number of vertical columns. It is important to note that some periodic tables may have additional columns on the far right, often referred to as "f-block" elements or inner transition metals. However, the main sections of the periodic table usually consist of 18 columns, numbered from 1 to 18.

Therefore, the answer is that there are typically 18 columns in the periodic table. Keep in mind that periodic tables may have different formats or variations, but the general concept remains the same.