Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The problem asks to identify which specific orbital block in the periodic table corresponds to the elements systematically classified as "transition elements".
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's look at the standard group classifications across the periodic table blocks:
s-block: Comprises the highly electropositive alkali metals (Group 1) and alkaline earth metals (Group 2).
p-block: Comprises main-group elements and non-metals (Groups 13 to 18).
f-block: Known specifically as the inner transition elements (Lanthanides and Actinides series).
d-block: Spans Groups 3 through 12. These elements are located in the central region of the periodic table, forming a bridge that marks a clear transition in properties between the highly reactive ionic s-block metals and the covalent p-block non-metals. Because of their partially filled $d$-orbitals, they are universally termed the transition elements.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The elements known as transition elements belong to the d-block, matching option (D).