1.3 Properties of Transition Metals

These flashcards are for Topic 1 - Atomic Structure & The Periodic Table in AQA GCSE Chemistry (Triple Higher). They cover specification points 4.1.3.1 & 4.1.3.2.

Why are Group 1 metals generally not used for structural purposes, whereas transition metals like iron are?

Group 1 metals are soft and have low strength, while transition metals are hard and strong.

In contrast to the single +1 ion formed by all Group 1 metals, transition metals can form _________ ____.

multiple ions

Where are the transition elements located on the periodic table?

In the central block, between Group 2 and Group 3.

Compared to Group 1 metals, transition metals typically have _______ melting points and densities.

higher

What physical property of transition metals like iron and nickel makes them different from soft Group 1 metals like sodium?

Transition metals are typically harder and stronger.

Which transition metal is an exception to the rule of having a high melting point, being a liquid at room temperature?

Mercury

Describe the general reactivity of transition metals compared to Group 1 alkali metals.

Transition metals are much less reactive than Group 1 metals.

How do most transition elements react with oxygen at room temperature?

They react slowly or not at all.

The usefulness of copper for making water pipes is due to its low reactivity with which substance?

Water

A key chemical property of transition elements is their ability to form ions with __________ charges.

different

What are the two common ions formed by the transition metal iron (Fe)?

Iron(II) and Iron(III)

What are the two common ions formed by the transition metal copper (Cu)?

Copper(I) and Copper(II)

Unlike the typically white compounds formed by Group 1 metals, compounds containing transition metals are often what?

Coloured

What colour are aqueous solutions containing copper(II) ions, such as copper(II) sulfate?

Blue

What important role do many transition metals and their compounds play in chemical reactions?

They act as catalysts

What is the definition of a catalyst?

A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being used up in the reaction itself.

Name two physical properties, besides conductivity and lustre, where transition metals typically exceed Group 1 metals.

Greater strength and greater hardness.

Do transition elements form positive or negative ions when they react?

They lose electrons to form positive ions.

The word equation for the reaction of heated copper with oxygen is copper + oxygen →

copper oxide

What is the typical state of transition metals at room temperature?

Solid

What property of transition elements is demonstrated by chromium forming Cr²⁺, Cr³⁺ and Cr⁶⁺ ions?

The ability to form ions with different charges.

This question is about metals and the reactivity series.

Which two statements are properties of most transition metals?

They form ions with different charges. They have high melting points.

Where is copper in the periodic table?

In the central block

What is a property of copper?

Conducts electricity