What are the 4 blocks of the periodic table?

The periodic table is divided into four blocks based on the way the electron orbitals are filled. These blocks are:

S-block: The first two groups of the periodic table, groups 1 and 2, are part of the S-block. Elements in this block have their outermost electrons filling the S-orbitals. Group 1 elements are known as alkali metals, and group 2 elements are alkaline earth metals.

P-block: The groups 13 to 18 in the periodic table constitute the P-block. Elements in this block have their outermost electrons filling the P-orbitals. This block includes a wide range of elements, such as nonmetals, metalloids, and some metals.

D-block (also known as Transition metals): The transition metals are found in groups 3 to 12, and they form the D-block. These elements have their outermost electrons filling the D-orbitals. They are known for their characteristic properties like variable oxidation states and the formation of colored compounds.

F-block (also known as Inner transition metals): The f-block consists of the two rows of elements at the bottom of the periodic table, located below the main body of the table. The f-block is further divided into the lanthanides (rare earth elements) and the actinides. These elements have their outermost electrons filling the F-orbitals.

These blocks help to classify elements based on their electron configurations and are useful in understanding their chemical properties and trends.