The main difference between S-block and D-block elements is that the S-block elements have their outermost electrons in the s orbitals while the D-block elements have outermost electrons in the D orbitals.
S-block and D-block elements are distinct groups in the periodic table. S-block elements are found in the first two groups of the periodic table, whereas D-block elements are transition metals found in groups 3 to 12.
Key Areas Covered
1. What are S-block Elements
– Definition, Features
2. What are D-block Elements
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between S-block and D-block Elements
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between S-block and D-block Elements
– Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: S-block and D-block Elements
– Frequently Asked Questions
Key Terms
S-block Elements, D-block Elements
What are S-Block Elements
S-block elements are the elements in the periodic table whose outermost electrons are filling an s orbital. These elements are found in the first two groups of the periodic table, specifically in groups 1 and 2. Group 1 elements are known as alkali metals, and Group 2 elements are alkaline earth metals. The electron configuration of these elements typically involves filling the s orbital, resulting in unique chemical properties.
Alkali metals, located in Group 1, include lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr). These metals are highly reactive and are known for their ability to form strong bases when combined with water. For example, sodium reacts vigorously with water to produce sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas
Alkaline earth metals, found in Group 2, include beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), and radium (Ra). These metals are less reactive than alkali metals but still exhibit high reactivity compared to most other elements. They also tend to form basic oxides and hydroxides. For example, the reaction of calcium with water produces calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
Characteristics of S-Block Elements
One notable characteristic of s-block elements is their tendency to lose electrons easily, leading to the formation of positively charged ions. Alkali metals typically form +1 ions, while alkaline earth metals form +2 ions. This behavior is a result of their electron configurations, with alkali metals having one electron in their outermost s orbital and alkaline earth metals having two electrons in that orbital.
The reactivity of s-block elements is also reflected in their ability to readily participate in various chemical reactions. Alkali metals, in particular, are known for forming salts by reacting with nonmetals. For instance, the reaction of sodium with chlorine results in the formation of sodium chloride (table salt). Similarly, alkaline earth metals can form salts through reactions with nonmetals, though their reactivity is generally lower than that of alkali metals.
These elements also play essential roles in biological systems. For example, sodium and potassium ions are crucial for nerve impulse transmission, and magnesium is a central component of chlorophyll, the molecule responsible for photosynthesis in plants.
While the alkali and alkaline earth metals share similarities, there are also key differences between them. Alkali metals are larger in size and have lower ionization energies compared to alkaline earth metals. Additionally, alkali metals tend to form more stable compounds with oxygen and other nonmetals, while alkaline earth metals preferentially form compounds with oxygen.
In terms of physical properties, s-block elements exhibit some trends. As one moves down the group, both alkali and alkaline earth metals show an increase in atomic size. This trend is primarily due to the addition of new electron shells as one descends the group. Consequently, larger atomic size corresponds to lower ionization energy, which contributes to the increased reactivity of the elements.
What are D-Block Elements
D-block elements, also known as transition metals, occupy the central portion of the periodic table. These elements span groups 3 to 12 and are situated between the S-block and P-block elements. This diverse group includes scandium to zinc in the fourth period and yttrium to cadmium in the fifth period. Notable examples within this range are iron, copper, and silver.
One defining feature of d-block elements is their gradual filling of the 3d, 4d, and 5d orbitals as one moves across the rows of the periodic table. The electron configurations of these elements often involve partially filled d orbitals, leading to the emergence of interesting magnetic and electronic properties. Transition metals are known for their colorful compounds, a result of electronic transitions between different d-orbitals.
The ability of d-block elements to exhibit multiple oxidation states is a key aspect of their chemistry. This versatility arises from the availability of multiple valence orbitals. For instance, iron (Fe) can exist in the +2 or +3 oxidation state, while manganese (Mn) can adopt oxidation states ranging from +2 to +7. This variable valency contributes to the formation of a wide array of compounds with different colors, structures, and reactivities.
Transition metals often act as catalysts in various chemical reactions due to their ability to undergo changes in oxidation states. For example, platinum (Pt) is widely used as a catalyst in hydrogenation reactions, where it facilitates the addition of hydrogen to unsaturated hydrocarbons. The ability to cycle between different oxidation states allows these elements to participate in redox reactions, making them essential in biological processes and industrial applications.
The formation of coordination compounds is another significant aspect of d-block element chemistry. Transition metals readily form complexes with ligands, which are molecules or ions that donate electron pairs to the metal ion. These complexes often exhibit unique electronic and magnetic properties. The coordination number, which refers to the number of ligands surrounding the metal ion, can vary, influencing the overall geometry of the complex.
Similarities Between S-block and D-block Elements
- S-block and D-block elements are predominantly metals.
- Both S-block and D-block elements generally exhibit good electrical conductivity due to the presence of free electrons.
Difference Between S-block and D-block Elements
Definition
S-block elements are elements that have their outermost electrons in the s orbital, while D-block elements are elements that have their outermost electrons in the d orbital.
Location
While S-block elements are located in groups 1 and 2 of the periodic table, D-block elements are located in groups 3 to 12 in the periodic table.
Valency
S-block elements tend to exhibit a valency equal to the number of electrons in their outermost s orbital, while D-block elements exhibit variable valency due to the involvement of both s and d orbitals in bonding.
Chemical Reactivity
Moreover, S-block elements are highly reactive metals. Alkali metals are known for their strong reducing properties, while alkali earth metals are less reactive than alkali metals but still undergo chemical reactions. Meanwhile, D-block elements display a wide range of chemical reactivity.
Ionization Energy
S-block elements generally have lower ionization energies compared to D-block elements.
FAQ: S-block and D-block Elements
Which is more metallic, s-block or d-block elements?
D block elements are more metallic than S block elements.
Which block elements are most reactive?
S block elements are the most reactive.
Why are they called s-block elements?
S block elements are called as such because their valence electrons are in s orbital.
Conclusion
S-block elements are found in the first two groups of the periodic table and are characterized by outermost electrons in the s orbital, whereas D-block elements are transition metals found in groups 3 to 12, with outermost electrons filling both s and d orbitals. Thus, this is the main difference between S-block and D-block elements.
Reference:
1. “S Block Elements.” Byju’s
2. “D Block Elements.” Byju’s
Image Courtesy:
1. “Subshells of Orbitals” By Foreverascone – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Enthalpy of atomization of block d elements” By Albris – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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