d- and f-block elements

General Characteristics of d- and f-block Elements: Understanding the electronic configurations,

occurrence, and unique properties of transition metals.Trends in Properties: Emphasis on the properties of
first row (3d) transition metals, including their oxidation states and chemical behavior.Comparative
Analysis of Lanthanoids and Actinoids: A look into the electronic configurations and differences between
these two groups of f-block elements.Role of Transition Elements in Civilization: Discussion on the
historical significance of metals like iron, copper, silver, and gold.Electronic Configurations: Detailed
insights into the configurations of transition elements, including notable exceptions.

Overview of d- and f-block Elements

Definition and Classification: Transition metals (d-block) and inner transition metals (f-block).
Position in the Periodic Table: Explanation of where these elements are located within the periodic table.
Electronic Configurations
General Electronic Configurations: Discussion of the electronic configurations of transition metals, including exceptions
like chromium (Cr) and copper (Cu).
Oxidation States: Understanding the stability of various oxidation states based on electrode potential values.
Properties of Transition Metals
Physical Properties: Characteristics such as high tensile strength, ductility, malleability, and conductivity.
Chemical Properties: Formation of colored ions, catalytic properties, and paramagnetism due to partly filled d orbitals.
Series of Transition Metals
Transition Metal Series: Details on the 3d series (Sc to Zn), 4d series (Y to Cd), 5d series (La and Hf to Hg), and 6d series.
Inner Transition Metals: Focus on lanthanoids (4f) and actinoids (5f).
Trends in Properties
Variations in Atomic and Ionic Sizes: Discussion on how atomic radii change across periods and groups.
Enthalpy of Atomisation: Explanation of trends in enthalpy values among transition metals.
Comparative Study
Comparison between Lanthanoids and Actinoids: Differences in electronic configurations, oxidation states, and chemical
behavior.
Applications:
Industrial Importance: The role of transition metals in industrial applications, including precious metals like gold and
silver, as well as their use in catalysis.
Related
What are the key differences between transition metals and inner transition metals?
How do the electronic configurations of transition metals affect their chemical properties?
Why are Zn, Cd, and Hg not considered transition metals despite being in the same group?
What are some important compounds derived from transition elements and their uses?
How do the properties of lanthanoids compare to those of actinoids?
### 1 Mark Questions
1. **What are transition metals?**
- Transition metals are defined as metals that have an incomplete d subshell in either their neutral state or in
their ions.
2. **Which elements are considered inner transition metals?**
- Inner transition metals include the lanthanoids (4f series) and actinoids (5f series).
### 2 Mark Questions
1. **Explain why zinc is not considered a transition metal.**
- Zinc has a complete d subshell configuration (3d$$^10$$) in its ground state and common oxidation states,
hence it does not exhibit the characteristics typical of transition metals.
2. **What is the significance of partially filled d orbitals in transition metals?**
- Partially filled d orbitals contribute to unique properties such as variable oxidation states, formation of
colored compounds, and catalytic activity.
### 3 Mark Questions
1. **Discuss the general physical properties of transition metals.**
- Transition metals typically exhibit high tensile strength, ductility, malleability, high melting and boiling points,
and good electrical conductivity due to their metallic bonding and presence of unpaired electrons.
2. **What are the trends in ionization enthalpy among transition metals?**
 - Ionization enthalpy generally increases from left to right across a series due to increased nuclear charge;
however, the increase is less steep compared to non-transition elements due to the shielding effect of d
electrons.
### 4 Mark Questions
1. **Describe the electronic configuration of the first series of transition metals.**
- The general electronic configuration for the first series (3d) of transition metals is $$(n-1)d^{1-10}ns^{0-2}$$.
For example, chromium has an exceptional configuration of 3d$$^5$$4s$$^1$$ instead of 3d$$^4$$4s$$^2$$.
2. **Explain the concept of lanthanoid contraction and its effects.**
- Lanthanoid contraction refers to the gradual decrease in atomic and ionic radii across the lanthanide series
due to poor shielding by f electrons. This results in similar sizes for elements in the 4d and 5d series, affecting
their chemical properties.
### 5 Mark Questions
1. **Compare and contrast the properties of lanthanoids and actinoids.**
- Lanthanoids (4f) generally exhibit +3 oxidation states and have similar chemical properties due to their
electron configurations. Actinoids (5f), on the other hand, show a wider range of oxidation states (+3 to +6) and
are more radioactive, with some elements being significant sources of nuclear energy.
2. **What factors contribute to the high enthalpies of atomization in transition metals?**
- Transition metals have high enthalpies of atomization due to strong metallic bonding arising from unpaired d
electrons that enhance interatomic interactions, leading to greater stability and higher energy required to break
these bonds during atomization.
Transition metals are defined by several key characteristics that distinguish them from other elements in the
periodic table. Here are the main characteristics:
### 1. **Incomplete d Subshell**
- Transition metals have an incomplete d subshell in their neutral state or in one or more of their oxidation
states. This is a fundamental criterion for classifying an element as a transition metal.
### 2. **Variable Oxidation States**
- They exhibit multiple oxidation states due to the ability to lose different numbers of electrons from both the s
and d orbitals. This variability is a significant aspect of their chemistry.
### 3. **Formation of Colored Compounds**
- Many transition metal compounds are colored due to d-d electron transitions, which occur when light excites
electrons from one d orbital to another. The specific colors depend on the metal ion and its oxidation state.
### 4. **Catalytic Properties**
- Transition metals and their compounds often act as catalysts in chemical reactions, facilitating the reaction
process without being consumed themselves. This property is attributed to their ability to change oxidation
states and coordinate with various ligands.
### 5. **Complex Formation**
- They readily form coordination complexes with ligands (molecules or ions that can donate electron pairs). The
presence of empty d orbitals allows transition metals to bond with ligands, leading to a wide variety of complex
geometries.
### 6. **Magnetic Properties**
- Many transition metals are paramagnetic due to unpaired electrons in their d orbitals, which align with
external magnetic fields. Some can also exhibit ferromagnetism.
### 7. **High Melting and Boiling Points**
- Transition metals generally have high melting and boiling points compared to s-block and p-block elements,
attributed to strong metallic bonding involving d electrons.
### 8. **High Density**
- They typically possess high densities due to closely packed atomic structures and heavier atomic masses.

What are the main characteristics that define transition metals?

How do the oxidation states of transition metals vary?
What role do transition metals play in modern technology?
How do the electronic configurations of the 3d series differ from those of the 4d and 5d series?
What are the unique properties of the inner transition metals?
How do the chemical properties of transition metals change across the different series
What are the common oxidation states of transition metals
How do the d orbitals influence the reactivity of transition metals
What are some practical applications of transition metals in everyday life
How do the electronic configurations of transition metals affect their catalytic properties
### Assertion and Reasoning Questions on Transition Metals
#### Question 1
**Assertion**: Transition metals have variable oxidation states.
**Reason**: This is due to the presence of unpaired electrons in their d orbitals.
**Answer**: Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains the assertion. Transition metals
can lose different numbers of electrons from both the s and d orbitals, leading to various oxidation states.
#### Question 2
**Assertion**: Zinc is considered a transition metal.
**Reason**: Zinc has a completely filled d subshell in its ground state.
**Answer**: The assertion is incorrect, while the reason is correct. Zinc (Zn) has a full d subshell (3d$$^{10}$$)
and is not classified as a transition metal according to IUPAC definitions.
### Question 3
**Assertion**: Transition metals form colored compounds.
**Reason**: The color arises from d-d electron transitions when light is absorbed.
**Answer**: Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains the assertion. The presence of
partially filled d orbitals allows for these transitions, which result in color.
#### Question 4
**Assertion**: All transition metals are paramagnetic.
**Reason**: Paramagnetism occurs due to unpaired electrons in d orbitals.
**Answer**: The assertion is incorrect, while the reason is correct. Not all transition metals exhibit
paramagnetism; some have all electrons paired (e.g., Zn), but those with unpaired electrons do exhibit
paramagnetic properties.
#### Question 5
**Assertion**: The melting points of transition metals generally increase across a period.
**Reason**: This trend is due to stronger metallic bonding as more d electrons become involved in bonding.
**Answer**: Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains the assertion. As you move
across a period of transition metals, increased d-electron involvement leads to stronger metallic bonds, resulting
in higher melting points.
Summary Table
Characteristic Lanthanoids Actinoids
Electronic Configuration
Based on the provided text, here are some important topics covered in the document:
1. **Position and Electronic Configuration of d- and f-block elements:** The document details the location of d-
block (transition metals) and f-block (inner transition metals) elements within the periodic table and explains
their electronic configurations, highlighting exceptions and the significance of half-filled and completely filled
orbitals.
2. **General Properties of Transition Elements (d-block):** This section explores the physical properties (high
melting points, tensile strength, conductivity) and chemical properties (variable oxidation states, complex
formation, catalytic activity, magnetic behavior) of transition metals, explaining the trends observed across
periods and groups. Lanthanoid contraction and its impact on atomic and ionic sizes are also discussed.
3. **Oxidation States and Electrode Potentials:** The document analyzes the variable oxidation states exhibited
by transition metals, relating them to electronic configurations and energy considerations. Trends in standard
electrode potentials (E⁰) for M²⁺/M and M³⁺/M²⁺ couples are examined, explaining the stability of different
oxidation states and their influence on reactivity.
4. **Important Compounds of Transition Elements:** The document delves into the preparation, properties,
and uses of crucial compounds like potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) and potassium permanganate (KMnO₄),
emphasizing their oxidizing properties and applications in various fields.
5. **Inner Transition Elements (f-block):** The document differentiates between lanthanoids and actinoids,
discussing their electronic configurations, oxidation states, atomic and ionic sizes, general characteristics, and
applications. The concept of actinoid contraction is explained. The unique chemical behavior of the actinoids
due to radioactivity is also addressed.
6. **Applications of d- and f-block elements:** The document concludes by summarizing the diverse
applications of these elements and their compounds in various industries, including steel production, catalysis,
and specialized materials.
#### Case 1
**Assertion**: Scandium (Z = 21) is classified as a transition metal.
**Reason**: Scandium has an incomplete d subshell in its ground state configuration.
**Answer**: Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains the assertion. Scandium has a
3d$$^1$$ configuration, which qualifies it as a transition metal according to IUPAC definitions.
#### Case 2
**Assertion**: Zinc (Z = 30) is considered a transition metal.
**Reason**: Zinc has a full d subshell in its common oxidation states.
**Answer**: The assertion is incorrect, while the reason is correct. Zinc has a complete d subshell (3d$$^10$$)
in both its ground state and common oxidation states, which means it does not meet the criteria for being
classified as a transition metal.
#### Case 3
**Assertion**: Transition metals generally exhibit high melting and boiling points.
**Reason**: This is due to strong metallic bonding involving d electrons.
**Answer**: Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains the assertion. The presence of
unpaired d electrons contributes to stronger metallic bonds, resulting in higher melting and boiling points
among transition metals.
#### Case 4
**Assertion**: The lanthanoid contraction affects the properties of the actinoids.
**Reason**: Lanthanoid contraction leads to similar atomic radii in the 4d and 5d series of elements.
**Answer**: The assertion is correct, but the reason is incorrect. While lanthanoid contraction does affect
properties such as atomic size, it primarily influences the 4f series (lanthanoids) rather than directly affecting
actinoids. The similarity in atomic radii between 4d and 5d series is due to the filling of f orbitals before d
orbitals.
#### Case 5
**Assertion**: Transition metals can form colored compounds.
**Reason**: The color arises from electron transitions between d orbitals when light is absorbed.
**Answer**: Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason explains the assertion. The presence of
partially filled d orbitals allows for electronic transitions that result in color when light interacts with these
compounds.
Why are Zn, Cd, and Hg not considered transition metals despite being in the same group?
Answer: Zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) are not considered transition metals despite being located
in group 12 of the periodic table. This classification is based on their electronic configurations and the definitions
set by IUPAC regarding transition metals.
Key Reasons:
Complete d Subshell:
Transition metals are defined as those elements that have an incomplete d subshell in their neutral state or in
one or more of their oxidation states.
Zinc, cadmium, and mercury have a full d subshell configuration:
Zinc: 3d 10 4s2
Cadmium: 4d 10 5s2
Mercury: 5d10 6s2
Since their d orbitals are completely filled (d10 ) in both their ground state and common oxidation states, they
do not meet the criteria for transition metals 1
Common Oxidation States:
The common oxidation states of Zn, Cd, and Hg are +2, which corresponds to the loss of the two s electrons
while leaving the d electrons intact. They do not exhibit variable oxidation states typical of transition metals,
which can show multiple oxidation states due to their ability to lose different numbers of d and s electrons.
Chemical Behavior:
Although Zn, Cd, and Hg share some chemical properties with transition metals due to their position in the
periodic table, their full d subshell leads to a lack of the characteristic properties associated with transition
metals, such as the formation of colored compounds and complex ions that arise from partially filled d orbitals.
IUPAC Definition:
According to IUPAC, transition metals are specifically defined as those elements that have an incomplete d
subshell. Since Zn, Cd, and Hg do not fulfill this requirement, they are classified as post-transition metals rather
than true transition metals 1.
In summary, while Zn, Cd, and Hg share some similarities with transition metals due to their group placement,
their complete d subshell configuration and lack of variable oxidation states exclude them from being classified
as transition metals.
Related
How do the chemical properties of Zn, Cd, and Hg differ from those of the transition metals
What are the common oxidation states of Zn, Cd, and Hg
How does the electronic configuration of Zn, Cd, and Hg influence their reactivity
Are there any specific compounds of Zn, Cd, and Hg that are studied alongside transition metal compounds
How do the positions of Zn, Cd, and Hg in the periodic table affect their classification
### MCQs on Transition Metals
1. **Which of the following elements is not considered a transition metal?**
- A) Iron (Fe)
- B) Copper (Cu)
- C) Zinc (Zn)
- D) Manganese (Mn)
**Answer**: C) Zinc (Zn)
2. **What is the common oxidation state exhibited by most lanthanoids?**
- A) +1 - B) +2 - C) +3 - D) +4
**Answer**: C) +3
3. **Which of the following transition metals exhibits the highest melting point?**
- A) Chromium (Cr) - B) Iron (Fe)
- C) Tungsten (W) - D) Nickel (Ni)
**Answer**: C) Tungsten (W)
4. **What characteristic property is primarily due to the presence of unpaired d electrons in transition metals?
**
- A) High density
- B) Formation of colored compounds
- C) High electrical conductivity
- D) Low melting points
**Answer**: B) Formation of colored compounds
5. **Which of the following statements about transition metals is correct?**
- A) They have completely filled d orbitals in their oxidation states.
- B) They can exhibit variable oxidation states.
- C) They do not form coordination complexes.
- D) They are all radioactive.
**Answer**: B) They can exhibit variable oxidation states.
6. **The phenomenon where atomic radii decrease across a transition metal series is primarily due to:**
- A) Increased shielding effect
- B) Increased nuclear charge
- C) Filling of f orbitals
- D) Decreased ionization energy
**Answer**: B) Increased nuclear charge
7. **Which of the following transition metals is known for its catalytic properties in industrial processes?**
- A) Silver (Ag) - B) Platinum (Pt)
- C) Cadmium (Cd) - D) Mercury (Hg)
**Answer**: B) Platinum (Pt)
8. **What type of bonding is primarily responsible for the high enthalpy of atomization in transition metals?**
 - A) Ionic bonding
- B) Covalent bonding
- C) Metallic bonding
- D) Hydrogen bonding
**Answer**: C) Metallic bonding
9. **Which series of elements is known as actinoids?**
- A) 4f series - B) 5f series
- C) 3d series - D) 4d series
**Answer**: B) 5f series
10. **What is the primary reason that zinc, cadmium, and mercury are not classified as transition metals?**
- A) They are not metals.
- B) They have incomplete d subshells.
- C) They have completely filled d orbitals.
- D) They do not exhibit any oxidation states.
**Answer**: C) They have completely filled d orbitals.
### MCQs on Transition Metals
1. **According to IUPAC, what defines a transition metal?**
- A) An element with a full d subshell
- B) An element with an incomplete d subshell in its neutral state or in its ions
- C) An element that can only exhibit +2 oxidation state
- D) An element that is a poor conductor of electricity
**Answer**: B) An element with an incomplete d subshell in its neutral state or in its ions
2. **Which of the following elements is classified as a transition metal?**
- A) Zinc (Zn)
- B) Copper (Cu)
- C) Cadmium (Cd)
- D) Mercury (Hg)
**Answer**: B) Copper (Cu)
3. **What is the common oxidation state of most transition metals?**
- A) +1 - B) +2 - C) +3 - D) +4
**Answer**: B) +2
4. **Which transition metal is known for its catalytic properties in the Haber process?**
- A) Iron (Fe) - B) Nickel (Ni)
- C) Platinum (Pt) - D) Manganese (Mn)
**Answer**: A) Iron (Fe)
5. **What is the primary reason for the formation of colored compounds by transition metals?**
- A) Presence of unpaired s electrons
- B) Electron transitions between filled p orbitals
- C) d-d electron transitions in partially filled d orbitals
- D) Ionic bonding with ligands
**Answer**: C) d-d electron transitions in partially filled d orbitals
6. **Which of the following statements about transition metals is incorrect?**
- A) They can form complex ions.
- B) They exhibit variable oxidation states.
- C) They have completely filled d orbitals.
- D) They are generally good conductors of electricity.
**Answer**: C) They have completely filled d orbitals.
7. **What is the effect of lanthanoid contraction on the properties of transition metals?**
- A) It increases atomic size across the series.
- B) It leads to similar radii for 4d and 5d series elements.
- C) It decreases melting points of transition metals.
- D) It has no effect on transition metals.
**Answer**: B) It leads to similar radii for 4d and 5d series elements.
8. **Which property is characteristic of transition metals due to their unpaired electrons?**
 - A) High volatility - B) Paramagnetism
- C) Low density - D) Non-conductivity
**Answer**: B) Paramagnetism
9. **What trend is observed in the melting points of transition metals across a period?**
- A) Melting points decrease steadily
- B) Melting points increase then decrease
- C) Melting points remain constant
- D) Melting points are unpredictable
**Answer**: B) Melting points increase then decrease
10. **Which of the following compounds is known for its use as an oxidizing agent in organic chemistry?**
- A) KMnO₄ (Potassium permanganate)
- B) NaCl (Sodium chloride)
- C) H₂SO₄ (Sulfuric acid)
- D) NaOH (Sodium hydroxide)
**Answer**: A) KMnO₄ (Potassium permanganate)
### MCQs on Transition Metals
1. **Which of the following elements is classified as a transition metal?**
- A) Calcium (Ca) - B) Iron (Fe)
- C) Bismuth (Bi) - D) Lead (Pb)
**Answer**: B) Iron (Fe)
2. **What is the electronic configuration of chromium (Cr)?**
- A) 3d$$^4$$4s$$^2$$
- B) 3d$$^5$$4s$$^1$$
- C) 3d$$^6$$4s$$^2$$
- D) 3d$$^{10}$$4s$$^2$$
**Answer**: B) 3d$$^5$$4s$$^1$$
3. **Which transition metal is known for its ability to form complex ions due to its empty d orbitals?**
- A) Scandium (Sc) - B) Titanium (Ti)
- C) Copper (Cu) - D) Nickel (Ni)
**Answer**: C) Copper (Cu)
4. **What property is primarily responsible for the high melting points of transition metals?**
- A) Ionic bonding
- B) Strong metallic bonding
- C) Covalent bonding
- D) Hydrogen bonding
**Answer**: B) Strong metallic bonding
5. **Which of the following statements about zinc (Zn) is true?**
- A) It has an incomplete d subshell.
- B) It exhibits variable oxidation states.
- C) It is not considered a transition metal.
- D) It forms colored compounds.
**Answer**: C) It is not considered a transition metal.
6. **The presence of which type of electrons in transition metals leads to their paramagnetic behavior?**
- A) Fully paired s electrons
- B) Unpaired d electrons
- C) Fully filled p electrons
- D) Unpaired f electrons
**Answer**: B) Unpaired d electrons
7. **What phenomenon explains the similar ionic radii observed in the 4d and 5d series of transition metals?**
- A) Lanthanoid contraction
- B) Atomic expansion
- C) Electron shielding effect
- D) Nuclear fusion
**Answer**: A) Lanthanoid contraction
8. **Which compound is commonly used as an oxidizing agent in organic chemistry?**
- A) NaCl (Sodium chloride)
- B) KMnO₄ (Potassium permanganate)
- C) HCl (Hydrochloric acid)
- D) H₂SO₄ (Sulfuric acid)
**Answer**: B) KMnO₄ (Potassium permanganate)
9. **Which of the following transition metals has the highest density?**
- A) Iron (Fe) - B) Copper (Cu)
- C) Gold (Au) - D) Silver (Ag)
**Answer**: C) Gold (Au)
10. **Why do transition metals have higher enthalpies of atomization compared to s-block metals?**
- A) Due to their larger atomic size
- B) Because of stronger metallic bonds involving d electrons
- C) Because they have more filled orbitals
- D) Due to weaker interatomic interactions
**Answer**: B) Because of stronger metallic bonds involving d electrons.
### 1-Mark Questions and Answers
1. **Question**: What defines a transition metal according to IUPAC?
**Answer**: Transition metals are defined as metals that have an incomplete d subshell in either their neutral
state or in one or more of their oxidation states.
2. **Question**: Which elements are not classified as transition metals despite being in group 12?
**Answer**: Zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) are not classified as transition metals because they
have completely filled d orbitals in their ground state.
3. **Question**: What is the electronic configuration of chromium (Cr)?
**Answer**: The electronic configuration of chromium is 3d$$^5$$4s$$^1$$.
4. **Question**: Which oxidation state is most commonly exhibited by lanthanoids?
**Answer**: The most common oxidation state exhibited by lanthanoids is +3.
5. **Question**: What property of transition metals is primarily responsible for their formation of colored
compounds?
**Answer**: The formation of colored compounds in transition metals is primarily due to d-d electron
transitions.
6. **Question**: Why do transition metals typically have high melting and boiling points?
**Answer**: Transition metals have high melting and boiling points due to strong metallic bonding involving d
electrons.
7. **Question**: Which transition metal is known for its catalytic properties in the Haber process?
**Answer**: Iron (Fe) is known for its catalytic properties in the Haber process.
8. **Question**: What trend is observed in the ionization enthalpy of transition metals across a period?
**Answer**: Ionization enthalpy generally increases across a period for transition metals due to increased
nuclear charge.
9. **Question**: What phenomenon explains the similar ionic radii observed in the 4d and 5d series of
transition metals?
**Answer**: The phenomenon known as lanthanoid contraction explains the similar ionic radii observed in the
4d and 5d series of transition metals.
10. **Question**: Which group of elements do zinc, cadmium, and mercury belong to?
**Answer**: Zinc, cadmium, and mercury belong to group 12 of the periodic table.
Here are important 1-mark questions and answers specifically focused on f-block elements based on the
characteristics and information provided in the document:
### 1-Mark Questions and Answers on f-Block Elements
1. **Question**: What are the two series of f-block elements?
**Answer**: The two series of f-block elements are the lanthanoids (4f series) and actinoids (5f series).
2. **Question**: What is the common oxidation state exhibited by most lanthanoids?
**Answer**: The common oxidation state exhibited by most lanthanoids is +3.
3. **Question**: Which element marks the beginning of the actinoid series?
**Answer**: The element that marks the beginning of the actinoid series is thorium (Th).
4. **Question**: What is the general electronic configuration of lanthanoids?
**Answer**: The general electronic configuration of lanthanoids is $$[Xe] 6s^2 4f^{1-14}$$.
5. **Question**: Which f-block element is known for its high radioactivity?
**Answer**: Uranium (U) is an f-block element known for its high radioactivity.
6. **Question**: What characteristic property distinguishes actinoids from lanthanoids?
**Answer**: Actinoids exhibit a wider range of oxidation states compared to lanthanoids.
7. **Question**: Which f-block element is used as a fuel in nuclear reactors?
**Answer**: Uranium (U) is commonly used as a fuel in nuclear reactors.
8. **Question**: What is the primary reason for the similar ionic radii between 4f and 5f series elements?
**Answer**: The similar ionic radii between 4f and 5f series elements are primarily due to the lanthanoid
contraction.
9. **Question**: Which element in the actinoid series has the highest atomic number?
**Answer**: Lawrencium (Lr) has the highest atomic number in the actinoid series.
10. **Question**: What type of bonding predominantly occurs in f-block elements?
**Answer**: Predominantly metallic bonding occurs in f-block elements due to their metallic nature.