Question 1: Define a transition metal and describe one key characteristic that distinguishes it from other metals.

Answer: A transition metal is an element that has partly filled d orbitals, allowing it to form various oxidation states and colored compounds.

Question 1: Explain why transition metals are often used as catalysts in chemical reactions.

Answer: Transition metals can change oxidation states easily, allowing them to facilitate various chemical reactions without being consumed, making them effective catalysts.

Question 2: What is the reason for the distinct color of many transition metal compounds?

Answer: They absorb specific wavelengths of light due to d-d electronic transitions, which gives their compounds different colors.

Question 1: Calculate the number of electrons in the outermost shell of a chromium atom (atomic number 24). Use the formula: Number of electrons in outer shell = Atomic number - core electrons. Assume the core electrons are 18.

Answer: 6

Question 2: If a transition metal ion has a charge of +3, how many electrons have been lost compared to its neutral atom? (Atomic number of the metal = 26).

Answer: 3

Question 1: Design a simple experiment to test the reactivity of different transition metals with hydrochloric acid. Include variables to control, safety precautions, and expected observations.

Answer: The experiment involves placing samples of different transition metals (e.g., iron, copper, zinc) in hydrochloric acid. Variables to control include concentration and temperature. Safety precautions include wearing gloves and goggles. Expected observations are gas bubbles forming, indicating reaction; the rate of reaction varies with different metals.

Question 1: A scientist observes that a certain transition metal forms compounds with a variety of colors, from pale yellow to deep red. Explain what property of transition metals accounts for this phenomenon.

Answer: The ability of transition metals to have multiple oxidation states causes their compounds to absorb different wavelengths of light, resulting in a range of colors.

Question 1: Describe the main reasons why transition metals are widely used in jewelry and industry, focusing on their properties.

Answer: Transition metals are used in jewelry and industry because they have high melting points, are durable, resistant to corrosion, can form colorful compounds, and often have attractive luster and malleability, making them both functional and aesthetically appealing.

Question 1: Explain how the properties of transition metals make them suitable for use in catalytic converters in cars.

Answer: Transition metals like platinum and palladium can change oxidation states easily, allowing them to facilitate the conversion of harmful gases into less harmful substances without being consumed, making them ideal catalysts in catalytic converters.