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Chapter Summary

d- and f-Block Elements

ICSE · Class 12 · Chemistry

Summary of d- and f-Block Elements for ICSE Class 12 Chemistry. Key concepts, important points, and chapter overview.

60 questions45 flashcards5 concepts

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An infographic showing the trend in the nature of oxides (basic, amphoteric, acidic, neutral) across a period in the periodic table, with examples.
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Overview

d-Block and f-Block elements form the transition section of the periodic table. d-Block elements are called transition elements because the differentiating electron enters the (n-1)d subshell, while f-block elements are called inner transition elements because the differentiating electron enters the

Key Concepts

Transition elements are those elements

Transition elements are those elements in which the differentiating electron enters the (n-1)d subshell. They belong to groups 3 to 12 and show transi

Inner transition elements are those

Inner transition elements are those in which the differentiating electron enters the (n-2)f subshell. They form the lanthanoid and actinoid series.

The first transition series is Sc

The first transition series is Sc to Zn, the second is Y to Cd, the third is La and Hf to Hg, and the fourth is Ac and elements with atomic number 104

Chromium has [Ar] 3d5 4s1

Chromium has [Ar] 3d5 4s1 and copper has [Ar] 3d10 4s1 because half-filled and completely filled subshells have extra stability.

Zn

Zn, Cd and Hg have completely filled d10 configurations in both the element and their common +2 ions, so they do not have partially filled d-orbitals.

Learning Objectives

  • Identify the position of d-block and f-block elements in the periodic table
  • Classify transition series and inner transition series correctly
  • Explain exceptional electronic configurations of chromium and copper
  • Understand why Zn, Cd and Hg are not true transition elements
  • Describe trends in atomic radius, ionic radius, density, melting point and ionisation enthalpy

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in d- and f-Block Elements for ICSE Class 12 Chemistry?
Key topics in d- and f-Block Elements include d- and f-Block Elements — Complete Concept Map, Electronic Configuration Exceptions in 3d Series, Is an Element a True Transition Metal?. These are the concepts ICSE Class 12 examiners draw on most — study them first, then practise related questions.
How to score full marks in d- and f-Block Elements — ICSE Class 12 Chemistry?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 60 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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