Chapter 8: Problem 27
Identify the block of the periodic table where each of the following elements is. (a) \(\mathrm{Gd}\) (b) \(\mathrm{Ir}\) (c) \(\mathrm{As}\) (d) \(\mathrm{Sc}\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
(a) f-block, (b) d-block, (c) p-block, (d) d-block.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding the Periodic Table Blocks
The periodic table is divided into four blocks: s, p, d, and f. The differentiating factor is the type of atomic orbital the outer electrons occupy. The s-block includes groups 1 and 2, the p-block comprises groups 13 to 18, the d-block consists of groups 3 to 12, and the f-block consists of the lanthanides and actinides.
02
Identify the Block for Gadolinium (Gd)
Gadolinium (\(\mathrm{Gd}\)) is an element in the lanthanide series. Elements in the lanthanide series are part of the f-block because they have their outer electrons in f-orbitals. Therefore, \(\mathrm{Gd}\) is an f-block element.
03
Identify the Block for Iridium (Ir)
Iridium (\(\mathrm{Ir}\)) is located in group 9 of the periodic table, which is within the d-block. The d-block includes transition metals where the differentiating electron enters a d-orbital. Therefore, \(\mathrm{Ir}\) is a d-block element.
04
Identify the Block for Arsenic (As)
Arsenic (\(\mathrm{As}\)) is located in group 15. The elements in groups 13 to 18 are part of the p-block since they fill p-orbitals. Thus, \(\mathrm{As}\) is a p-block element.
05
Identify the Block for Scandium (Sc)
Scandium (\(\mathrm{Sc}\)) is found in group 3, which is part of the d-block. Being in the first group of transition metals, its outer electrons occupy d-orbitals. Thus, \(\mathrm{Sc}\) is a d-block element.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
s-block
The s-block of the periodic table is where you'll find the alkali and alkaline earth metals. These elements occupy the first two columns (groups 1 and 2) of the periodic table. The name "s-block" comes from the fact that the outermost electrons of these elements inhabit s-orbitals.
Key features of the s-block include:
Key features of the s-block include:
- Group 1: Alkali Metals (e.g., lithium, sodium, potassium)
- Group 2: Alkaline Earth Metals (e.g., magnesium, calcium, strontium)
- Highly reactive, especially group 1 elements
- Shiny, soft, and have low melting points
p-block
The p-block elements are located on the right side of the periodic table, comprising groups 13 to 18. These elements have their outermost electrons in p-orbitals. The p-block is incredibly diverse, hosting metals, metalloids, and non-metals.
Some important characteristics:
Some important characteristics:
- Includes elements such as carbon (group 14), nitrogen (group 15), and oxygen (group 16)
- Contains both nonmetals and metalloids
- Encompasses a wide range of properties and reactivity
- Houses noble gases in group 18, known for their inert behavior
d-block
The d-block is positioned in the center of the periodic table and includes groups 3 to 12. Known as the transition metals, these elements have electrons filling d-orbitals. The d-block is known for its metallic characteristics and considerable industrial importance.
Distinctive features of the d-block:
Distinctive features of the d-block:
- Includes elements like iron, copper, and gold
- Typically exhibit metallic properties: good conductors of heat and electricity
- Often form colorful compounds
- Have high melting and boiling points
- Possess multiple oxidation states, making them versatile in reactions
f-block
Hidden beneath the main body of the periodic table, the f-block contains the lanthanides and actinides. These elements are characterized by their filling of f-orbitals, resulting in the inclusion of these rare earth elements and radioactive metals.
Key points about the f-block:
Key points about the f-block:
- Lanthanides commonly found from cerium (
cerium) to lutetium
The lanthanides are known for their shiny, silvery appearance and are often used in products like phosphors and magnets.
- Actinides range from thorium to lawrencium
- Many actinides are radioactive (e.g., uranium and plutonium)
- These elements are employed in nuclear energy applications and advanced technologies