Q.53:- Discuss the main characteristics of four blocks of elements in the periodic table? Give their general electronic configuration.
Answer:-
s-block elements:
- They are highly reactive elements and thus occurs in combined state. On moving down the group their reactivity increases.
- They have good reducing characters.
- They generally form electropositive ion by losing 1 or 2 electrons, that’s why they are electro positive in nature.
- They are good conductors of heat and electricity.
p-block elements:
- Most of the p-block elements show variable oxidation states.
- They include both metals and non-metals.
- They are generally covalent in nature.
- As move from left to right the non-metallic character of the element increases.
- On moving down the group metallic character increases.
d-block elements:
- d-block elements show variable oxidation states.
- They are generally paramagnetic in nature.
- Their compounds are generally coloured. Those which form complex compounds.
- Most of the elements and their compounds acts as catalyst.
f-block elements:
- They are generally heavy metals having high melting and boiling points.
- Their compounds are generally coloured.
- Variable oxidation states are generally shown by these elements.
- Most of Activities are radioactive.
General electronic configuration:
s-block —ns1-2
p-block —ns2 np1- 6
d-block —(n -1) d1 -10 ns0-2
f-block —(n – 2)f0-14 (n -1) d0- 1 ns2