Step 1: Understanding Group 3 of the Periodic Table.
- The third group of the periodic table includes elements from both the main group and transition series.
- It consists of Scandium (Sc), Yttrium (Y), Lanthanum (La), and Actinium (Ac) as well as elements from the lanthanide and actinide series.
Step 2: Counting the elements.
- Scandium (Sc) and Yttrium (Y) are always included.
- The inclusion of Lanthanum (La) and Actinium (Ac) follows the periodic trends.
- The lanthanides and actinides also belong to the third group, leading to a total count of 8 elements.
Step 3: Conclusion.
- Since the total number of elements in Group 3 is 8, the correct answer is (D) 8.