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Chapter 22: Problem 19

In Chapter 2 we defined main group elements as those elements found in groups \(1,2,\) and \(13-18\) in the periodic table. Why do some chemists refer to these as the "s-block" and "p-block" elements?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Main group elements are referred to as "s-block" and "p-block" elements because their outermost (valence) electrons are found in the s and p orbitals, respectively. These orbitals play a crucial role in determining the elements' chemical properties and reactivity. The "s-block" elements consist of groups 1 and 2, where their valence electrons are in the s-orbitals, while the "p-block" elements are groups 13-18, which have their valence electrons in the p-orbitals.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Main Group Elements

The main group elements are those found in groups 1, 2, and 13-18 in the periodic table. These elements have their outermost (valence) electrons in either the s or p orbitals. Since the s and p orbitals are responsible for defining the chemical properties of an element, understanding their electron configurations helps us to understand the elements' behavior and reactivity.
02

Recalling Definitions of the s- and p-Orbitals

The s- and p-orbitals are regions in an atom where electrons are most likely to be found. The s-orbitals are spherical and can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, while the p-orbitals are dumbbell-shaped and can hold a maximum of 6 electrons. The arrangement of these orbitals and the number of electrons housed within them directly impact the element's chemical properties.
03

Connecting the Main Group Elements to Electron Configurations

Now, let's connect the main group elements to their electron configurations: \begin{itemize} \item Group 1 elements (alkali metals) have an electron configuration of \(\mathrm{[Noble\:Gas]\:ns^1}\), where \(n\) represents the period number. \item Group 2 elements (alkaline earth metals) have an electron configuration of \(\mathrm{[Noble\:Gas]\:ns^2}\). \item Group 13-18 elements have an electron configuration of \(\mathrm{[Noble\:Gas]\:ns^2\:np^{1-6}}\), where the number of p electrons varies from 1 to 6 according to the group number. \end{itemize} From the electron configurations above, we can see that the elements in these groups have their outermost electrons in either the s- or p-orbitals.
04

Concluding With the "s-block" and "p-block" Terms

Because the main group elements have their outermost electrons in either the s- or p-orbitals, they are often referred to as "s-block" and "p-block" elements. The "s-block" elements consist of groups 1 and 2, which have their valence electrons in the s-orbitals, while the "p-block" elements are groups 13-18, which have their valence electrons in the p-orbitals. These terms help emphasize the role of the s and p orbitals in shaping the chemical properties of these elements.

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