Classification of F Block Elements
F-block elements, also known as Inner Transition elements, are classified into two main groups:
- Lanthanides (4f-series)
- Actinides (5f-series)
This classification is based on the filling of f orbitals and the resulting electronic configurations of these elements.
Lanthanides (4f-series)
Lanthanides consist of 15 elements, starting with lanthanum (La) and ending with lutetium (Lu), from atomic numbers 57 to 71. They are characterized by the filling of the 4f orbitals. Lanthanides are often collectively referred to as the “rare earth elements.” They share similar chemical properties due to the gradual filling of the 4f orbitals, resulting in comparable outer electron configurations.
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Actinides (5f-series)
Actinides comprise 15 elements, starting with actinium (Ac) and extending beyond uranium (U) to lawrencium (Lr), covering atomic numbers 89 to 103. They are characterized by the filling of the 5f orbitals. Actinides are radioactive in nature and also undergo radioactive decay, emitting alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. Some actinides, such as americium (Am) and curium (Cm), are used in research and industrial applications.
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F Block Elements
F-Block Elements in Chemistry, also known as Inner Transition Elements, comprise a group of elements located in the two rows at the bottom of the periodic table. Elements with filled f orbitals are found within this section. The f-block is positioned in the sixth and seventh periods of the periodic table, with the sixth period referred to as the lanthanide series and the seventh as the actinide series.
In this article, we will discuss the topic of F-Block Elements, including their properties, position in the periodic table, electronic configurations, as well as their real-world applications.
Table of Content
- What are F Block Elements?
- Electronic Configuration of F Block Elements
- Classification of F Block Elements
- Properties of F Block Elements
- Characteristics of Lanthanides
- Characteristics of Actinides
- Applications of F Block Elements