D-Block and F-Block Elements - Detailed Notes
■ D-Block Elements (Transition Elements)
• General electronic configuration: [noble gas] (n-1)d¹■¹■ ns■■²
• Characteristics:
1 Show variable oxidation states due to availability of (n-1)d and ns electrons.
2 Form coloured compounds because of d–d transitions.
3 Catalytic activity due to variable oxidation states and large surface area.
4 High melting & boiling points, high density.
5 Form alloys easily (similar atomic sizes).
6 Magnetic behaviour: paramagnetic if unpaired electrons present.
• Trends:
1 Oxidation states: increase across a period, maximum in middle (Mn shows +7).
2 Atomic radii: decrease slightly across period due to increasing nuclear charge.
3 Ionisation enthalpy: increases across a period.
• Important points:
1 Mn: shows maximum oxidation state +7.
2 Fe, Co, Ni: show ferromagnetism.
3 Zn, Cd, Hg: not true transition metals (no incomplete d-orbitals).
■ F-Block Elements (Lanthanides & Actinides)
• Lanthanides (Z=57–71): Filling of 4f orbitals
1 Show +3 oxidation state (most stable).
2 Lanthanide contraction: steady decrease in size across series due to poor shielding of 4f.
3 Consequences: Zr & Hf have almost same radii, separation of lanthanides is difficult.
4 Show paramagnetism due to unpaired 4f electrons.
5 Weak complex formation compared to d-block (large size).
• Actinides (Z=89–103): Filling of 5f orbitals
1 Exhibit variable oxidation states (+3 to +7).
2 Mostly radioactive.
3 Show strong tendency to form complexes (small size & higher charge).
■ Important Questions (Board + Competitive Exams)
1 Why do transition elements form coloured compounds?
2 Explain lanthanide contraction and its consequences.
3 Why do actinides show a greater range of oxidation states than lanthanides?
4 Why is Zn not considered a transition element?
5 Write electronic configurations of Cr³■ and Cu²■ and explain stability.