Chemistry of s, p, and d Block Elements — A/L Chemistry

What must I remember about Chemistry of s, p, and d Block Elements?

• s-block elements (Group 1 alkali metals, Group 2 alkaline earth metals) are strong reducing agents; thermal stability of Group 2 carbonates and nitrates increases down the group as cation charge density decreases.
• Characteristic flame test colors: Li (crimson red), Na (intense yellow), K (lilac), Ca (brick red), Sr (crimson), Ba (apple green).
• p-block trends: metallic character decreases across a period and increases down a group; inert pair effect stabilizes lower oxidation states in heavy elements (Tl⁺, Pb²⁺, Bi³⁺).
• Group 17 halogens: oxidizing power decreases down the group (F₂ > Cl₂ > Br₂ > I₂); halide reducing ability increases down the group (I⁻ > Br⁻ > Cl⁻ > F⁻).
• Transition elements (d-block): exhibit variable oxidation states, catalytic activity, magnetic properties, and form colored coordination complex ions.

Test yourself (1 minute)

1. Coordination complexes

   ligands donate lone pairs into vacant metal hybrid orbitals (e.g. [Fe(CN)₆]⁴⁻, coordination number 6, octahedral).

2. Origin of complex color

   d-orbital splitting by ligands results in d-d electronic transitions absorbing specific visible wavelengths.

3. Disproportionation reaction

   element is simultaneously oxidized and reduced (e.g. Cl₂ + 2OH⁻(cold dilute) → Cl⁻ + ClO⁻ + H₂O).

Practise Chemistry of s, p, and d Block Elements questions today

Source: NIE G.C.E. (A/L) Chemistry Syllabus (Unit 6)

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Grade 12 · Term 2