What are s-block Elements?

You all are well-familiar with the concept of the modern periodic table. In the modern periodic table, we learn about 4 kinds of blocks i.e. s-block, p-block, d-block & f-block. Here, we will learn the definition of s-block elements. It is the most intriguing block of the periodic table.

The element which enters in the outermost s-orbital are known as s-block elements.

S-block elements consists 2 groups i.e. Group 1 & Group 2. Group 1 consists elements which are called as alkali metals while Group 2 consists metals which are called as alkaline earth metals.

• Group 1- Alkali Metals
• Group 2- Alkaline Earth Metals

What are Alkali Metals of Group 1?

Have you ever wondered why sodium causes a fizzy explosion when it is dropped in water? We will uncover this further.

• Group 1 elements are called alkali metals because they make hydroxides, whenever reacts with water. You all know that water is strongly alkaline. Here you got your answer for the above question.
• Alkali metals are well-known for their extreme reactions & their easy bond with other elements. The elements of Group 1 have 1 valence electron in their outermost s-orbital.

Learn more about, Alkali Metals

What are Alkaline Earth Metals of Group 2?

• During any occasion, you buy fireworks right? And when you light them up, they starts glowing & gives a beautiful view. It’s the magic of none other than our magnesium.
• Group 2 introduces us the alkaline earth metals which exists in the earth’s crust. The interesting thing here is that their oxides & hydroxides are alkaline in nature. The elements of Group 2 have 2 valence electrons in their outermost s-orbital.

Learn more about, Alkaline Earth Metals

Table of S-block Elements & Their Symbol

S-block comprises total 14 elements which are classifies into 2 groups: Group 1 & Group 2. The classification of these 14 elements are given below in tabular form:

Electronic Configuration of S-block elements

Electronic Configuration of s-block elements is added in the image below,

S-block elements are those elements in which the last electron is present in the s-orbital. In the periodic table. They reside in the first 2 columns. S-block consists of 14 elements that include, Hydrogen (H), Lithium (Li), Helium (He), Sodium (Na), Beryllium (Be), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Rubidium (Rb), Calcium (Ca), Caesium (Cs), Strontium (Sr), Francium (Fr), Barium (Ba), and Radium (Ra).

In this article, we will learn about s-block elements, their various properties, and others in detail.