3.1F Transition Metals

What is the definition of a transition metal? Where are they found?

an element whose atoms have incomplete d-sublevels or that can give rise to cations with incomplete d-sublevels

They are found in the d-block of the periodic table.

What metal is NOT considered a transition metal despite its placement? Why?

Zinc becuase its d-oribitals are filled: [Ar]4s²3d¹⁰

Variable Oxidation States of Transition Metals

What are complexes? What surrounds what? What is the relationship between ligands and d-orbitals?

• the combination of a transition metal and ligands

• Central transition metal ion is surrounded by ligands

• Ligands have a lone pair of electrons. They can make co-ordinate covalent bonds with the transition metal ion

• Ligands split d-orbitals

How are complexes affected by light?

When light is shone on the complex, light of a particular wavelength is absorbed as an electron is promoted. The colour that we see is white light minus whatever colour is absorbed.

Transition metal speed up the reaction of chemical reactions being used. This means they are…?

catalysts

Why are transition metals magnetic?

Magnetic strength depends on the number of unpaired electrons in the d-orbitals