3.1.8 characteristic properties of transition elements (HL)

chem classificationsofmatter

Structure 3.1.8 - transition elements have incomplete -sublevels that give them characteristic properties

see 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 metallic bond
see 3.1.9 variable oxidation states (HL)
see 3.1.10 coloured complexes (HL)

change in atomic radii across block is due to small increase in

the change in nuclear charge is offset by the addition of the addition of an electron in the inner sublevel

zinc is not a transition metal as it does not have multiple oxidation states, only +2, does not form coloured complexes. the sublevel is complete in both species

physical properties

• high electrical and thermal conductivity
• high melting point
• malleable
• high tensile strength
• ductile
• ferromagnetic 3 (iron, cobalt, nickel)

ferromagnetism

magnetic properties due to presence of unpaired electrons in orbitals. spinning electrons behaves as a magnet. when aligned, lead to magnetic properties

chemical properties

• form compounds with >1 oxidation state
• form a variety of complex ions
• form coloured complexes
• act as catalysts

as catalysts

provides alternate reaction pathways with lower activation energy

i.e. iron in Haber process: