Transition Metals: General Properties of Transition Metals

Question 1

What is a transition metal?

Answer 1

• An element which forms at least one stable ion with a partially full d-shell of electrons
• Ti-Cu

Question 2

What are the characteristic properties of transition metals?

Answer 2

• Complex formation
• Formation of coloured ions
• Variable oxidation state
• Catalytic activity

Question 3

Which transition metals have irregular electron configurations and why? What are their electron configurations?

Answer 3

• Chromium
- [Ar] 3d3 4s2

• Copper
- [Ar] 3d10 4s1

• Provides more stability

Question 4

What are the physical properties of transition metals?

Answer 4

• All have high density

- All have high melting and boiling points

Question 5

What are complexes?

Answer 5

• A complex is a central metal atom or ion surrounded by ligands

Question 6

What are ligands?

Answer 6

• A ligand is a molecule or ion that forms a co-ordinate bond with a transition metal by donating a pair of electrons

Question 7

What are co-ordination numbers?

Answer 7

• Co-ordination number are number of co-ordinate bonds to the central metal atom or ion