Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic Trends and Properties - SS3 Chemistry Past Questions and Answers - page 3

Transition Metals and Their Properties

1.    Electronic Configuration: Transition metals are located in the d-block of the periodic table and are characterised by their partially filled d orbitals. Their general electronic configuration is (n-1)d^(1-10) ns^(1-2), where (n-1)d orbitals can hold 1 to 10 electrons, and ns orbitals can hold 1 or 2 electrons. The partially filled d orbitals play a vital role in the unique properties and reactivity of transition metals.

2.    Variable Oxidation States: One of the key features of transition metals is their ability to exhibit multiple oxidation states. The presence of partially filled d orbitals allows them to readily lose or gain electrons, leading to different oxidation states in their compounds. For example, iron (Fe) can exist in the +2 or +3 oxidation states, while chromium (Cr) can be found in the +2 to +6 oxidation states.

3.    Complex Formation and Coordination Chemistry: Transition metals are known for their ability to form coordination complexes. The partially filled d orbitals can accept lone pair electrons from surrounding ligands, leading to the formation of coordination bonds. These coordination complexes often exhibit vibrant colours due to d-d electronic transitions.

4.    Catalytic Activity: Transition metals are excellent catalysts due to their ability to undergo redox reactions easily by changing their oxidation states. They play a crucial role in numerous industrial processes, such as the Haber process (iron as a catalyst for ammonia synthesis) and catalytic converters in automobiles (platinum and palladium for pollutant conversion).

5.    High Melting and Boiling Points: Transition metals generally have high melting and boiling points compared to main group elements. This is due to the presence of strong metallic bonds resulting from the delocalization of electrons within the partially filled d orbitals and the s orbitals.

6.    Paramagnetism: Many transition metal ions are paramagnetic, meaning they are attracted to magnetic fields due to unpaired electrons in their d orbitals. This property is exploited in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic data storage devices.

Significance of Partially Filled d Orbitals:

The presence of partially filled d orbitals in transition metals enables them to engage in unique chemistry and form diverse compounds:

1.    Colour in Transition Metal Complexes: The partially filled d orbitals allow for absorption and emission of visible light during electronic transitions, leading to the vibrant colours observed in transition metal complexes. This property is widely used in pigments and dyes.

2.    Formation of Coordination Complexes: The availability of empty d orbitals in transition metals allows them to bond with ligands and form coordination complexes. This gives rise to complex geometries and enhances the stability of the compounds formed.

3.    Variable Oxidation States: The ability to change oxidation states makes transition metals versatile in various chemical reactions and essential for biological processes such as enzymatic reactions.

In conclusion, transition metals possess unique properties and characteristics due to the presence of partially filled d orbitals. Their variable oxidation states, complex formation, catalytic activity, and colourful coordination complexes make them essential in various industrial, biological, and technological applications. The reactivity of transition metals is intricately linked to their partially filled d orbitals, enabling them to undergo diverse chemical reactions and coordinate with ligands to form a wide range of compounds.