Transition Metals Flashcards
(87 cards)
Transition element definition
A transition element is a d-block element that can form at least one stable ion with a partially filled (incomplete) d sub-shell.
The d sub shell can hold up to how many electrons?
10
Across period 4, which elements have an unusual electron configuration and why?
chromium and copper because an electron from the 4s orbital moves into the 3d orbital to create a more stable half full or full 3d sub shell respectively
Which two elements across period 4 are d block elements but not transition elements?
scandium and zinc
Why is scandium not a transition element?
It forms only one stable ion of Sc 3+. Sc 3+ has an empty d sub-shell and as it is not partially filled it is not a transition element.
Why is zinc not a transition element?
It forms only one stable ion of Zn 2+. Zn 2+ has a full d sub-shell. As it is not partially filled, it is not a transition element.
Why do transition metals have variable oxidation states?
The electrons sit in 4s and 3d energy levels which are very close. As a result, electrons are gained and lost using a similar amount of energy.
What colour is V 2+ (aq)?
violet
What colour is V 3+ (aq)?
green
What colour is VO 2+ (aq)?
blue
What colour is VO2 + (aq)?
yellow
What colour is Cr 3+ (aq)?
violet when surrounded by 6H2O but they are normally substituted so usually looks green
What colour is Cr2O7 2- (aq)?
orange
What colour is Mn 2+ (aq)?
pale pink
What colour is MnO4 - (aq)?
purple
What colour is Fe 2+ (aq)?
pale green
What colour is Fe 3+ (aq)?
orange/yellow
What colour is Co 2+ (aq)?
pink
What colour is Ni 2+ (aq)?
green
What colour is Cu 2+ (aq)?
blue
What is a complex ion?
where a central transition metal ion is surrounded by ligands bonded by dative covalent (coordinate) bonds
What is a ligand?
an ion, atom or molecule that has at least one lone pair of electrons
What are monodentate ligands?
ligands which only have one lone pair of electrons (can also be called unidentate ligands)
What are three examples of monodentate ligands?
H2O:
:NH3
:Cl-