Elements are classified based on the type of orbital being filled with electrons. There are four blocks of elements: 1) S-block elements have electrons filling their s orbitals and include alkali metals and alkaline earth metals. 2) P-block elements have electrons filling their p orbitals and include groups 13-18. They are also known as representative elements. 3) D-block elements have electrons filling their d orbitals and are also called transition metals. They have variable oxidation states. 4) F-block elements have electrons filling their f orbitals and are also called inner transition metals. They are all metals with complex chemistry and many are radioactive.