Transition Metals

Question 1

What are transition elements

Answer 1

An element that forms one or more stable ions with an incomplete d sub-shell.

Question 2

Why is zinc classified as a D block element but not as a transition element

Answer 2

Zinc is a d block element because the last electron in the zinc atom goes into a d orbital. Zinc only forms the Zn 2+ ion where the d-sub shell is full, therefore it is not a transition element.

Question 3

Characteristics of transition elements

Answer 3

They have variable oxidation states
Form coloured ions
Complex formation
Show catalytic activity

Question 4

Why do transition metals have several oxidation states

Answer 4

In transition metals the increase in successive ionisation energies is small because the 3d and 4s energy levels is close together. This increase can be offset by the lattice energy. Therefore transition metals have several oxidation states.

Question 5

Colours of all Vanadium ions

Answer 5

V 2+ = violet/purple
V 3+ = Green
VO 2+ = Blue
(VO2)+ and (VO3)- = Yellow

Question 6

What is a complex

Answer 6

A central metal atom or ion surrounded by ligands

Question 7

What is a ligand

Answer 7

A atom, molecule or ion that donates a lone pair of electrons to a metal ion to form a coordinate bond

Question 8

What is coordination number

Answer 8

Number of coordinate bonds to the central metal atom or ion

Question 9

What is a monodentate ligand

Answer 9

A ligand that donates one electron pair and forms one coordinate bond to a metal ion