Revision notes · Atomic structure and the periodic table
Properties of transition metals (chemistry only)
Comparison with Group 1 elements4.1.3.1
Transition metals are found in the central block of the periodic table, between Group 2 and Group 3.
| Group 1 metals | Transition metals | |
|---|---|---|
| Density, hardness, strength | Low | Higher |
| Reactivity | Very reactive | Much less reactive |
| Melting points | Low (except lithium) | Higher (mercury is the exception — a liquid) |
| Compound colours | White/colourless compounds | Often coloured compounds |
| Ions formed | Always +1 | Often more than one possible ion charge |
⚠️ Common mistake: Assuming transition metals behave like Group 1 metals because they're both 'metals' — transition metals are far less reactive, denser and stronger.
🧠 Remember: Transition metals: harder, denser, less reactive, more colourful than Group 1.
Typical properties4.1.3.2
Transition metals share several useful properties that make them good for construction and as catalysts.
- •They are good conductors of heat and electricity, and are useful as structural materials.
- •Many transition metals can form ions with different charges (e.g. iron can form Fe²⁺ or Fe³⁺).
- •Transition metal compounds are often brightly coloured.
- •Transition metals and their compounds are often useful as catalysts (e.g. iron in the Haber process).
⚠️ Common mistake: Forgetting that a transition metal can form more than one ion — always check which charge the compound's name or formula implies (e.g. iron(II) vs iron(III)).
🧠 Remember: Transition metals: strong, dense, colourful, good catalysts.
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