Transition Metals Essay, Research Paper

Transition Elements A transition element is a metal with an ion or a compound with

a partially filled d subshell. Zinc is not a transion metal but is a d block element because

it has a full d subshell. This is shown because its compounds are usually

white. Properties of transition elements: Coloured compounds and ions. Form complex ions.

Have catalytic properties.

Variable oxidation states.

High melting point.

High density.

High tensile strength.

Show paramagnetism.

A complex is formed when a transition metal ion is surrounded by ligands which dative

covalent bond with it by donating lone pairs of electrons into vacant d

orbitals. The d electrons of the metal ion do not take part in ligand

bonding.