Transition Elements

Question 1

Define transition elements

Answer 1

It is a d-block element that can form one or more stable ions with a partially filled d-subshell.

Question 2

Define a complex ion

Answer 2

It is a species that contain a central metal atom/ion surrounded by molecules or anions which form coordinate bonds to the metal centre.

Question 3

Define a ligand

Answer 3

It is a molecule or anion with at least one pair of electrons that it can use to form a dative bond to the transition metal atom/ion

Question 4

Why do transition metals form stable ions?

Answer 4

-They are small and highly charged, thus have high charge density.
- They have energetically low-lying vacant d orbitals to accommodate the lone pair of electrons donated by the ligands to form dative bonding.

Question 5

Define coordination number

Answer 5

It indicates the number of coordinate bonds around the central metal ion or atom in the complex