13.

2 - First-Row d-Block Elements

13.2.1 - List the characteristic properties of transition elements

A variable oxidation number

Higher melting points, harder and denser than group 1 and 2 metals

Form complex ions

Majority of their compounds are coloured

Can act as catalysts

No significant change in atomic radii due to repulsion between the 4s and 3d electrons

13.2.2 - Explain why Sc and Zn are not considered to be transition elements

Scandium and Zinc do not have a partially filled d subshell. Since the ions do not have a
partially filled d subshell, they are not considered to be transition metals. They only have
one possible oxidation state, while all transition metals have variable oxidation states.

13.2.3 - Explain the existence of variable oxidation number in ions of transition elements
Cr
Mn
Fe
Cu

2+
2+
2+
1+

3+ 6+
4+ 7+
3+
2+

The maximum oxidation number possible for titanium to manganese

is equal to the number of electrons in the 4s and 3d subshells
Electrons are lost form both the 4s and 3d subshells because their
energy levels are so close

13.2.4 - Define the term ligand

An ion or small polar molecule that is attracted to the transition metal ions because it has
an electron pair that it can donate to the central metal ion.
Examples: NH3 CO Cl- CN- OH- H2O

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13.2.5 - Describe and explain the formation of complexes of d-block elements

Transition metal ions are highly charged and strongly attract
ions and polar molecules. As a result, they can form a
complex ion, linked by coordinate (dative) bonds. There are
typically two to six ligands surround a transition metal in a
complex. The coordination number is the number of ligands surrounding the central ion.
The name of the complex indicates the type and number of ligands. The
number of ligands affects shape of the complex.

13.2.6 - Explain why some complexes of d-block elements are coloured

When transition metal complexes are placed in light, parts of white light are absorbed, and
the complementary colours are seen.
Orbitals of complex ions are split into two levels. The closer a ligand can get to the ion, the
larger the split of the d-orbital. The splitting depends on:

The charge on the transition metal ion, as higher charge has greater pull on the
ligands, creating a larger split

The size of the ligand, since smaller ligands can get closer to the ion, increasing the
split size according to:

Light falling on the complex causes electrons at lower energy levels to

be excited. They move to a higher energy level, absorbing light. The
difference in the split of the energy levels determines the
wavelengths of energy that is absorbed. Different ligands also form
different colours
If a transition metal does not have any d-orbital electrons, or the d-orbitals are full, then the
ion will be colourless. Complexes can still form.

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13.2.7 - State examples of the catalytic action of transition metals and their compounds
MnO2
This is used as a catalyst for the decomposition of H2O2, hydrogen peroxide
V2O5
Pellets are used in the Contact process to make H2SO4
Fe
Porous iron is used in the Haber process to make NH3. Also found in heme, and binds to
oxygen to transport it in the blood.
Ni
Used in hydrogenation to convert alkenes to alkanes, such as in the production of margarine
Co
This is found in vitamin B12 and aids the production of red blood cells and the functioning of
the nervous system
Pd and Pt
Used in the decomposition CO, NO and NO2 in the catalytic converter of car exhausts.

13.2.8 - Outline the economic significance of catalysts in the Contact and Haber processes
Contact Process - Used to produce Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is used for:

Fertilisers

Paints

Pigments and dyes

Manufacturing other chemical compounds

Soaps and detergents

Fibres

Plastics

Processing metals

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Heterogeneous catalysts are when the catalyst is in a different state to the reactants
Pellets of vanadium oxide (V2O5) as a solid catalyst are employed. Using the catalyst
overcomes disadvantage of to use lower than ideal temperatures to produce satisfactory
yields at equilibrium. The oxidation state of the transition metal changes during the
reaction, then is regenerated at the end.

This equilibrium is an exothermic reaction, hence favoured by low temperatures and high
pressures. Low temperatures cause slow reaction, so catalyst is needed. A faster reaction
makes it economically viable

Haber Process - Used to produce Ammonia

Ammonia is used for:

Fertilisers

Nylon

Manufacturing other chemical compounds

Porous from of iron and potassium hydroxide is used for the reaction. Other transition
metals could be used, however these are more expensive. Without the catalyst, the reaction
would not be economically viable

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