green group · The short answer
KINDS OF NUMBERS
Each puzzle word passes the same exact test. The four mappings show how the answer works.
ATOMIC forms atomic number, the number assigned to an element according to its number of protons.
SERIAL forms serial number, an identifying number assigned to an individual item or unit.
SOCIAL SECURITY forms Social Security number, a personal identifying number used in the United States.
TELEPHONE forms telephone number, the sequence used to identify a telephone connection.
Why this group was difficult
- The shared word is implied
The board gives the modifiers without printing NUMBER after them, so each entry must be mentally completed. - The phrases belong to different subjects
Atomic, serial, Social Security, and telephone numbers serve scientific, commercial, administrative, and communication purposes. - ATOMIC has competing readings
ATOMIC can suggest energy, weapons, or science generally, while its precise fit here is the compound atomic number.
How to spot this pattern next time
Try adding NUMBER after words that look like modifiers; retain the candidates that produce familiar, established phrases.
Separate the number labels from entries that name objects, marks, foods, or word beginnings rather than forcing one topic onto the whole board.
Four useful facts behind the group
- The verified hub places this category second in green.
- ATOMIC forms the established term atomic number.
- SERIAL NUMBER identifies an individual item or unit.
- TELEPHONE NUMBER identifies a telephone connection.
Questions players ask
The details people search after seeing the group
What is the green group in Connections on August 20, 2026?
The green group is KINDS OF NUMBERS: ATOMIC, SERIAL, SOCIAL SECURITY, and TELEPHONE.
What word follows ATOMIC in this Connections group?
NUMBER follows ATOMIC to form atomic number, the official compound behind that board entry.
Why does TELEPHONE belong with kinds of numbers?
TELEPHONE forms telephone number, a familiar label for the number used to identify a telephone connection.