🔎 Chemistry Tip: What Makes Transition Metals Special?
- Transition metals are in groups 3–12 of the Periodic Table.
- They form colored compounds, show variable oxidation states, and act as catalysts.
- Their d-orbitals are partially filled, even in common ions.
Common Transition Metals
| Element | Symbol | Oxidation States |
|---|---|---|
| Iron | Fe | +2, +3 |
| Copper | Cu | +1, +2 |
| Chromium | Cr | +3, +6 |
| Manganese | Mn | +2, +4, +7 |
Example Questions
Which of the following is a transition metal?
A) Sodium, B) Zinc, C) Iron, D) Barium
Correct Answer: Iron
Which transition metal is used in making stainless steel?
A) Copper, B) Chromium, C) Calcium, D) Potassium
Correct Answer: Chromium