Where are the transition metals located on the periodic table?

• A. On the far right, in groups 13 through 18
• B. In the bottom two rows, known as the lanthanides and actinides
• C. In the central block, specifically groups 3 through 12
• D. On the far left, in groups 1 and 2

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the periodic table is divided into blocks based on electron configurations: s-block, p-block, d-block, and f-block.
2. Recall that transition metals are elements that have partially filled d orbitals, which places them in the d-block of the periodic table.
3. Identify the location of the d-block, which corresponds to groups 3 through 12 in the central portion of the periodic table.
4. Note that groups 1 and 2 on the far left are the s-block elements (alkali and alkaline earth metals), and groups 13 through 18 on the far right are the p-block elements.
5. Recognize that the bottom two rows, the lanthanides and actinides, are the f-block elements, not transition metals.