Inner Transition Metals

The periodic table is divided into four blocks, s-block, p-block, d-block and f-block. s-block and p-block elements are called representative elements. d-block elements are called transition elements. f-block elements are called inner transition elements or inner transition matals. Inner transition metals are usually put at the bottom of the periodic table. These elements were sometimes called rare earth elements or rare earth metals due to their extremely low natural occurrence. They include elements 57-71 (known as lanthanides) and 89-103 (actinides). The lanthanides are very similar. The actinides are all radioactive. Lanthanides are located inperiod 6. Actinides are located inperiod 7.