Periodic Trends: Blocks
Chemistry: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 3.2.7
Periodic Table - Blocks
The periodic table can be organized into four sections. These are labeled s, p, d and f blocks.
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The s block
- The two leftmost columns make up the s block.
- This is called the s block because elements in it have all their valence electrons in s orbitals.
- Note, Helium is also an s block element because it has the electron configuration 1s2.
The p block
- The six rightmost columns make up the p block.
- This is called the p block because elements in the p block have a partially filled p sub-shell.
The d block
- The d block lies between the s and p blocks.
- Elements in the d block have a partially filled d sub-shell.
- Elements in the d block are often called transition metals.
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The f block
- The f block is detached along the bottom of the periodic table.
- Elements in the f block have a partially filled f sub-shell.
- These elements are referred to as the lanthanides and the actinides (top and bottom row respectively).
Test yourself on Periodic Trends: Blocks
Which of the following is an s block element that does NOT sit on the left-hand side of the periodic table?
Which block would the transition metal tungsten lie in?