Difference Between P Block vs S Block Elements

State five differences between p-block elements and s-block elements.

Difference Between P Block vs S Block Elements

The elements of the periodic table can be divided into different blocks. They are classified based on the shell occupied by their valence electrons.

The four types of blocks in the modern periodic table are:

· s block

· p block

· d block

· f block

Coming to your question, let’s discuss s and p block elements.

s-block:

· The elements of group 1 and 2 belong to the s block

· these have one and two valence electrons in their outermost shell – the s-orbital

· The elements are metals

· Group 1 elements – Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs

· Group 2 elements – Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba

p-block

· The elements of group 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 belong to this block

· These have 3 – 6 electrons in their outermost shell

· The outermost shell belongs to the p-orbital

· The elements are generally non–metals, but they also consist of metalloids and some metals

Differences between s- and p- p-block elements:

S–block elements:

· the general electronic configuration of block elements is ns^1-2

· these are metals

· These generally form ionic compounds. (except- Li and Be)

· They have a low EN as compared to p-block elements.

· These show oxidation states of +1 and +2.

Example- Li, Na, K etc.

P – block elements

· the general electronic configuration of p-block elements is ns²np^1-6

· these include non–metals, metalloids, and some metals too

· These can form both ionic and covalent compounds

· They have high EN as compared to s-block elements

· These show a variety of oxidation states.

Example – B, Al, In, C, N, O, etc.

I hope this answer helps.

– Written by Manpreet