What are P Block Elements: Properties and Uses

The P Block Elements Class 12 Ncert chapter discusses the different types of ​p-block elements. Now, we will list the p-block elements from the periodic table along with their characteristics. Students who are preparing for exams like IISER and IIT JAM must be well aware of these characteristics:

The following points highlight the properties of p-block elements:

1. The electron configuration of p-block elements ends with np¹ to np⁶, where n refers to the principal quantum number. This means that their valence electrons are in p-orbitals.
2. P-block elements have 3-8 valence electrons.
3. The left side of the p‑block elements, including Boron and Aluminium, shows metal‑like behaviour.
4. Middle p-block elements, including Carbon, Nitrogen and Oxygen, are non-metals.
5. As we move downwards, the p-block elements become heavier and more metallic in nature. For instance, Tellurium is a p-block metal.
6. Further to the right, p-block elements have an electron-gaining tendency.
7. Left-side p-block elements have an electron-losing tendency.
8. Lighter p-block elements such as Carbon and Nitrogen form strong covalent bonds.

P-block elements have the following applications:

• Carbon (C): It is one of the most important parts of organic chemistry. Carbon, as graphite, is used for pencils and lubricants, and as diamond in cutting tools and jewellery. Students of NEET and CUET exams must learn about the properties of p-block elements in detail for better performance.
• Nitrogen (N): It is an important component in fertilisers in the form of ammonia and nitrates. Nitrogen is used in Haber process to produce ammonia and to create inert atmospheres.
• Oxygen (O): This p-block non-metal is used in steel production, welding, and as an oxidiser in rocket propulsion.
• Silicon (Si): It is important for manufacturing semiconductors and electronic components. This p-block is also used in the form of silicates in construction materials like glass and concrete.
• Phosphorus (P): It is one of the main components used in agricultural fertilisers.
• Sulfur (S): In the chemical industry, sulfur is used for producing sulfuric acid, which is important for various industrial processes.

The following table describes the periodic trends across periods and down the group for p-block elements: