Crossword Genius

Swell element topped another? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nobelium

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'swell element' is the definition.
'nobelium' can be an answer for 'element' (nobelium is a kind of element). I am not certain of the 'swell' bit.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for nobelium that I've seen is " Atomic no. 102".)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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