Properties of the d-Block Elements
Transition elements have partially filled d orbitals, giving variable oxidation states, coloured ions, paramagnetism and catalytic activity.
What is Properties of the d-Block Elements?
Transition elements have partially filled d orbitals, giving variable oxidation states, coloured ions, paramagnetism and catalytic activity.
Key formula / rule: Variable oxidation states arise from similar 4s and 3d energies.
Key points
- Explain the origin of colour and paramagnetism in transition metal ions.
- Analyse the range of oxidation states shown by a 3d element.
Common exam trap
Calling zinc a typical transition element despite its filled d subshell.
Definitions
- Term
Properties of the d-Block Elements
- Meaning
Transition elements have partially filled d orbitals, giving variable oxidation states, coloured ions, paramagnetism and catalytic activity.
- Term
Properties of the d-Block Elements — explanation
- Meaning
The closeness in energy of 4s and 3d electrons allows several oxidation states, while d-d transitions produce colour. Lanthanoid contraction explains the similarity of the second and third transition series.
Learning objectives
Explain the origin of colour and paramagnetism in transition metal ions.
Analyse the range of oxidation states shown by a 3d element.
Formulae
- Key point
Variable oxidation states arise from similar 4s and 3d energies.
- Key point
Colour arises from d-d electronic transitions.
- Key point
Lanthanoid contraction makes 4d and 5d radii nearly equal.
Prerequisites
CHE-U1-BC-T2-S1-C3
Common mistakes
Calling zinc a typical transition element despite its filled d subshell.
Attributing colour to the metal rather than to the d-d transition.
Keywords
Properties
d-Block
Elements
Practice preview
Calculate the spin-only magnetic moment (in BM) for a transition metal ion with d6 configuration in a high spin octahedral complex.…
hard
Which of the following elements is NOT considered a transition element according to the IUPAC definition?…
easy
What is a characteristic property of transition elements primarily due to their partially filled d-orbitals?…
easy