In which block of the periodic table is the element gallium found?

Gallium is found in the p-block of the periodic table. The periodic table is divided into several blocks based on the electron configurations of the elements, which correspond to the subshells that are being filled with electrons.

Elements in the p-block are characterized by having their outermost electrons in p orbitals. Gallium, with the atomic number 31, has an electron configuration that ends in 4p¹, indicating that it has one electron in the 4p subshell. This placement in the p-block includes groups 13 to 18 of the periodic table, which are often distinguished by properties such as metalloid characteristics, reactivity, and oxidation states.

In contrast, the s-block consists of groups 1 and 2, where elements have their outermost electrons in s orbitals. The d-block contains transition metals with electrons filling d orbitals, while the f-block consists of lanthanides and actinides, which fill f orbitals. Understanding these blocks helps categorize elements based on their chemical properties and behavior, which is crucial for predicting reactivity and bonding.