Transition metals

where is a transition metal?

• found between group 2 and 3

• d block elements

what is a transition element?

• d block element that has an incomplete d sub-shell as a stable ion

• Scandium and Zinc are not classed as transition metals as they do not have any ions with partially filled d-orbitals

chemical properties of transition metals

• can have different oxidation states

• compounds form colourful solutions when dissolved in water

• often catalyse chemical reactions

how do transition metals form a coloured solution when dissolved in water?

• some of the wavelengths of visible light are absorbed when light passes through a solution containing transition metals

• the colour we see is a mixture of wavelengths of light that are not absorbed

transition metals as catalysts

• 2 main ways:

• 1 - transition metals provide a surface for the reaction to take place on, reactants are absorbed onto the surface of the metal and held in place while the reaction takes place

• 2 - transition metal ions have the ability to change their oxidation states by gaining or losing electrons. they then bind to reactants, forming intermediates as part of a chemical pathway