MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

1. The element of 3d series which forms a colorless 3+ ion is

a) Fe b) Co c) Mn d) Sc

2. Which among the following is not a transition element?

a) Mn b) V c) Cr d) Cd

3. Zn has lowest enthalpy of atomization among the 3d elements, because

a) It has high melting point

b) it has no unpaired electrons to participate in active inter-atomic metallic bonding

c) It has got incompletely filled d subshell

d) it is not a transition element

4. Among Zn2+, Ni2+, Cu2+ and Mn2+ the one with largest size is

a) Zn2+ b) Cu2+ c) Mn2+ d) Ni2+

5.The EoM2+/M reduction potentials of Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+ and V2+ are +0.34V, -0.25V

,-0.76V,-1.18V respectively. The pair of ionswith least and highest Oxidising power is

a) Ni2+ and Cu2+ b) V2+ and Cu2+ c) Cu2+ and Zn2+ d) Zn2+ and Ni2+

6. Which among the following has similar atomic radii?

a) Sc and Y b) Nb and Ta c) Zr and Hf d) Ni and Pt

7. The stability of highest Oxidation state of transition elements down a group

a) decreases b) Increases c) remains same d) doesn’t show any regular trend

8. The no. of oxidation states exhibited by a transition element is maximum in the middle of a

Series. This is because of

a) the presence of more no. of electrons in d and s subshells

b) the presence of more no. of unpaired electrons in d subshell

c) Availability of empty orbitals in valence shell

d) All of these
9. Which has more Ionisation enthalpy, Cr+ or V+ or Mn+?

a) V+ b) Cr+ c) Mn+ d) both Cr+ and Mn+

10. EoMn3+/Mn2+ is more positive than those of Ti3+/Ti2+ and V3+/V2+. This is because of

a) Change in d configuration from d4 to d5, the d5 system being more stable by loss of

energy through spin exchange

b) Change in d configuration from d5 to d4

c) Change in d configuration from d4 to d5, d5 system being more stable due to symmetrical

distribution of electron density

d) Both a and c

11. The lowest common oxidation state shown by 3d series elements is

a) +1 b) +2 c) +3 d) +4

12. Cu+ is less stable than Cu2+ in aqueous solution. This is because of

a) More negative Hydration enthalpy of Cu+ ion

b) More negative Hydration enthalpy of Cu2+ ion

c) Less negative Hydration enthalpy of Cu2+ ion

d) Less enthalpy atomization of Cu

13. The ion that shows paramagnetic character is

a) Zn2+ b) Sc3+ c) Ti4+ d) Ti3+

14. A dipositive ion 3d series element has s spin only magnetic moment of 5.91 BM. The metal

Ion is

a) Co2+ b) Fe2+ c) Ni2+ d) Mn2+

15. Match the following:

ELEMENT PROPERTY

A) ZINC 1) STABLE IN +3 STATE

B)COPPER 2) LOWEST ΔHa

C) MANGANESE 3) PARAMAGNETIC MOMENT IS

1.732 BM

D) CHROMIUM 4) SHOWS MAX.O.S OF +4 WITH

FLUORINE AND WITH OXYGEN
SHOWS MAX.O.S OF +7

A) A-2: B-3 : C-4: D-1 B) A-1; B-2;C-3;C-4

C)A-4;B-2;C-3;D-1 D) A-4;B-3;C-2;D-1

16. Mischmetall contains

a) a lanthanoid element and Zinc b) a lanthanoid element and Iron

c) an actinoid element and Mn d) an actinoid element and Mg

17. Ti3+ ion forms a complex in aqueous solution and is purple colored . This is due to

a) d-d transition b) f-f transition c) L→M charge transfer d) M→L charge transfer

18. KMnO4 forms a purple colored solution with water. This is due to

a) d-d transition b) f-f transition c) L→M charge transfer d) M→L charge transfer

19. Which of the following is most stable in aqueous solutions?

a) Mn2+ b) Cr3+ c) V3+ d) Ti3+

20. The oxidation state of Cr in the final product formed by the reaction of KI and acidified
K2Cr2O7 is

a) +4 b) +6 c) +2 d) +3

21. The correct order of second Ionisation enthalpy of Ti,V,Cr and Mn is

 a) V>Mn>Cr>Ti b) Mn>Cr>Ti>V c) Ti>V>Cr>Mn d) Cr>Mn>V>Ti

22. The heaviest transition element is

a) Zn b) Sc C) Ta d) Os

23. Which of the following statements related to lanthanoids is incorrect?

a) Eu shows +2 oxidation state b) Pr(OH)3 to Lu)OH)3, basicity decreases

c) All lanthanoids are more reactive than Al d) Ce4+ is an oxidizing agent

24.Intersitial compounds are non-stoichiometric compounds formed by Transition elements

when atoms like H,C,N are trapped in the interstitial sites of transition metal lattices.

Which of the following is not a property of interstitial compounds?

a) They are very hard b) They retain metallic conductivity

c) They have high melting points d) They are chemically very reactive

25. Ti3+ in aqueous solution forms a complex ion with water. The purple color of this complex is

due to the d-d transition ie., the electronic transition from

a) t2g to eg b) eg to t2g c) t2 to e d) e to t2

26. Which among the following oxides of Vanadium is amphoteric

a) V2O5 b) VO2 c) V2O3 d) V2O4

27. Which is most covalent Mn2O7 or MnO2 or MnO?

a) Mn2O7 b) MnO c) MnO2 d) Both MnO and MnO2

ANSWERS

Q.NO CORRECT 20 d
OPTION

1 D 21 d

2 D 22 d

3 B 23 C

4 C 24 d

5 B 25 a

6 C 26 a

7 B 27 a

8 D

9 B

10 d

11 b

12 b

13 d

14 D

15 a

16 b

17 a

18 c

19 b

ASSERTION AND REASONING QUESTIONS:

1. Assertion : Cr2+ is a good reducing agent

Reason : Cr2+ donates one electron to become Cr3+ which in turn is a stable half filled t2g
system.

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: a

2. Assertion : Actinoid contraction is greater from element to element than Lanthanoid

contraction

Reason: The shielding effect of 5f orbitals is poor in comparison to 4f orbitals

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans; a

3. Assertion: KMnO4 in acidic condition is a good oxidizing agent

Reason : It can oxidize Iodide ions to elemental Iodine

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: b

4. Assertion : The E0Ce4+/Ce3+ reduction potential is more positive

 Reason : Ce4+ can act as an analytical agent

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: b

5. Assertion: Cr in +6 oxidation state is a better oxidizing agent than Mo in +6 oxidation state

Reason : In transition elements, the stability of highest oxidation state increases down a group

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: a

6. Assertion: MnF7 is unknown whereas KMnO4 is known

Reason: Oxygen, though being less electronegative than Fluorine, is versatile in stabilizing

Highest oxidation states of transition metals by forming multiple bonds with metal

atom.

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans:a

7. Assertion : Mn2O7 is more acidic than MnO

 Reason : Higher the oxidation state of the metal less is the acidic character.

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: d

8. Assertion : Transition metals and their compounds can act as good catalysts

Reason: Transition metals can adopt multiple oxidation states.

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: a

9. Assertion : Transition metal ions can form complex compounds with ligands

Reason : Transition metal ions have large size, low charge and completely filled d orbitals

a ) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: d

10. Assertion : Transition metals show variable oxidation states.

 Reason : This is due to the incompletely filled d orbitals

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: a

CASE BASED QUESTIONS:

1. Potassium dichromate is a very important chemical compound used in leather industry. It is

used as an oxidant .It is also used in the preparation of many azo ompounds. It is a crystalline
ionic solid with bright color. It is not deliquescent in contrast to Sodium sichromate. The
conversion of chromate ions to dichromate ions and vice versa is pH sensitive. Potassium
dichromate in acidic condition is a milder oxidising agent than acidified Potassium
permanganate. This fact is revealed by their corresponding standard reduction potential values
which can be extracted from any chemical literature pertaining to Inorganic chemistry.

a) If the pH of the solution containing chromate ions is decreased, what is it converted to ?

Ans: It is converted to dichromate ions.

2CrO42- + 2H+ →Cr2O72- + H2O

b) Write balanced chemical equations for the reaction of acidified Potassium dichromate
reactions with

1) Fe2+ ions 2) Sn2+ ions

ANSWER:

1) Cr2O72- + 14H+ + 6Fe2+→ 2Cr3+ +6Fe3+ + 7H2O

2) Cr2O72- + 14H+ + 3Sn2+ → 2Cr3+ + 3Sn4+ + 7H2O

c) What is the oxidation state of Cr in K2Cr2O7?

1) +2 2) +3 3) +4 4) +6

ANS: +6
2) Potassium permanganate is an inorganic crystalline salt with purplish black color that
dissolves in

water to produce K+ and MnO4- ions . The aqueous solution is intensely pink to purple in
color.

Potassium permanganate is a powerful oxidizing agent in acidic and basic conditions. As a

strong

oxidant that does not generate toxic byproducts ,Potassium permanganate has many niche
uses. It is

used in the treatment of Dermatitis and in treatment of water.It is also called as Bayer’s
reagent.

a) Write the balanced chemical equations for the reaction of acidified KMnO 4 with

1) Fe2+ 2) C2O42-

Ans 1) MnO4- + 5Fe2+ + 8H+→ Mn2+ + 5Fe3+ + 4H2O

2) 5C2O42- + 2MnO4- + 16H+ → 2Mn2+ + 8H2O + 10CO2

b) Alkaline oxidative fusion of MnO2 gives ----------

1) MnO4- 2) MnO42- 3) MnO d) Mn2O7

Ans: MnO42- (Manganate ion)

c) Assertion: Reaction of acidified KMnO4 with water is very slow.

Reason : Though this chemical reaction is thermodynamically feasible, kinetic inertness slows

the reaction.

a) Both A and R are correct statements and R is the correct explanation of A

b) Both A and R are correct statements but R is not the correct explanation of A

c) Both A and R are false statements

d) A is true R is false.

Ans: Option A
 2 MARKS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

1) What are d and f block elements? Write their general electronic configurations.

The elements present in groups 3 to 12 and in the periods 4 to 7 of modern Periodic Table
are called d and f block elements.

G.E.C of d block elements: (n-1)d1-10 ns1,2 where n= 4,5,6,7

G.E.C. of f block elements: (n-2)f1-14 (n-1)d0,1 ns2 where n= 6,7

Note : n is period number

2) Group 12 elements are not considered as transition elements. Why?

Zn, Cd and Hg have completely filled d subshell in ground state as well as in excited
states. So they are not considered as Transition elements.

3) Sc is a transition element whereas Zn is not. Why?

Sc has incompletely filled d subshell (d1) in its ground state where as Zn has got completely
filled d subshell in both ground state as well as excited state (d10)

4) Silver atom has completely filled d orbitals in the ground state (4d10). How can you say that it

is a transition element?

Though silver has 4d10 configuration in its ground state as well as +1 excited state , in its

+2 state it has a d9 configuration. So it is considered as a transition element.

Note; A transition element should have incompletely filled d subshell either in its ground state or

in one of its excied states.

5) In 3d series, the melting point and enthalpy of atomisation of Manganese is less compared to

those of its immediate neighbors. Why?

Mn has a half filled d subshell(d5) which is stable. Therefore the willingness of electrons in

d5 system to actively participate in inter atomic metallic bonding will be less.

6) What is Lanthanide contraction? What is its consequence?

The gradual decrease in atomic and Ionic sizes of lanthanoid elements(from L to R in 4f

 series) due to imperfect shielding of 4f orbitals is called Lanthanoid contraction.

Consequence: 4d and 5d series elements will have similar atomic/ionic sizes. Physical

separation of 4d and 5d series elements from each other becomes difficult as the sizes are

similar.

Eg: Zr and Hf have similar atomic radii and their physical separation from each other is difficult

7) Why do transition elements show variable oxidation states?

This is due to incompletely filled d orbitals and the participation of both (n-1)d and ns

electrons in the bonding process and ofcourse due to the availability empty orbitals in n shell

where the electrons from (n-1)d and ns could be excited to.

8) Why is Cr2+ reducing whereas Mn3+ oxidizing when both have d4 configuration?

Cr2+ is a reducing agent because it donates one electron to become Cr3+ which in turn is

characterized by half filled t2g orbitals,( a stable system).

On other hand, Mn3+ is an oxidizing agent because it accepts one electron to become Mn2+

which is characterized by a stable half filled d subshell ie., d5.

9) The EoM2+/M reduction potential of Cu2+ reduction is most positive (+0.34V) among

EoM2+/M reduction potential values of divalent ions in 3d series. Why?

The energy invested in creating +2 state of Cu ( ΔHa + ΔHi(1) + ΔHi(2)) is more in

comparison to the energy released during hydration of Cu2+ ion in water (Hydration

enthalpy)

10) How would you account for the irregular variation of first Ionisation enthalpies in the first

series of the transition elements?

Irregular variation of Ionisation enthalpies is mainly due to varying degree of stability of

different 3d onfigurations (d0,d5 and d10 are exceptionally stable)

11) Which is a stronger reducing agent Cr2+ or Fe2+ and why?

Cr2+ is a stronger reducing agent than Fe2+. The Eo values are EoCr3+/Cr2+ = 0.41V and

EoFe3+/Fe2+ = 0.77V.

The transition Cr2+→Cr3+ + e is easier as Cr3+ is stable by the virtue of having having half

filled t2g orbitals.

The transition Fe2+→ Fe3+ + e is comparatively less because it involves unpairing anelectron

(Fe2+ is a d6 system)

12) Why is Cu+ unstable in aqueous solutions?

In aqueous solution, Cu+ undergoes disproportionation reaction.

2Cu+ → Cu2+ + Cu

The higher stability of Cu2+ (aq) is due to higher negative hydration enthalpy of Cu2+ in

comparison to that of Cu+.

13) Actinoid contraction is greater from element to element than lanthanoid contraction. Why?

In actinoids, the poor shielding effect of 5f orbitals cause more contraction in sizes of

actinoids as we move from L to R across the 5f series. The 5f electrons have poor shielding

effect as compared to 4f electrons.

14) How is the variability in oxidation states of transition metals different from that of non-

transition elements?

In transition metals the oxidation state vary by unity.(due to incmpletley filled d orbitals)

In non- transition elements this variation is selective, differeing by 2.

15)Why is the highest oxidation state of a metal exhibited in its oxide and fluoride only?

This is due to a) high electronegativities of Fluorine and Oxygen

b) high lattice energy as in the case of CoF3 or high bond enthalpy terms in

covalent fluorides like VF5 and CrF6

 3 MARKS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. Give reasons:

Transition metals

a) form complexes b) and their compounds act as catalysts c) form colored compounds

Ans: a) Transition metal ions have high charge, small size and availability of d orbitals

b) Transition metals can adopt multiple oxidation states

c) Transition metal ions can form complexes in which electrons can be promoted to eg

Set of orbitals from t2g set of d orbitals (d-d transition)

2. Explain giving reasons:

a) Transition metals and many of their compounds show paramagnetic behavior

b) The enthalpies of atomization of transition metals are high

c) Transition metals form alloys and Interstitial compounds

Ans: a) They have unpaired electrons

b) Unpaired electrons in ultimate and penultimate shells actively paricipate in inter-atomic

metallic bonding

c) Transition metal atomic sizes do not vary much. So alloys are easily formed among

transition metals . They form interstitial compounds because the interstitial sites in

transition metal lattices can accommodate smaller atoms like H,C,N etc

3. Suggest reasons:

a) The lowest oxide of transition metal is basic, the highest amphoteric or acidic

b) The highest oxidation state is exhibited in oxoanions of transition metal

c) For the 3d series elements the EoM2+/M reduction potentials are irregular

Ans: a) In lowest oxide , the Oxidation state of the transition metal is less and the metal can

donate Electrons as some electrons are not involved in bonding whereas in highest

oxide the oxidation state is high and the electrons are involved in bonding and can’t be
 donated. So they are amphoteric. In some highest oxides the O.S is so high that the metal

can receive electron density from other species and thus behaving like acidic oxides

b) Oxygen, the second most electronegative element can form multiple bonds with metal

atom.

c) The reduction potentials are not regular which can be explained from the irregular

variation of Ionisation enthalpies (ΔHi(1) + ΔHi(2)) and also the sublimation

enthalpies which are relatively less for Mn and V.

4. List the differences between Lanthanoids and actinoids

LANTHANOIDS ACTINOIDS

4f subshell gets progressively filled up with 5f sub shell progressively gets filled up with
electrons electrons

Less reactive than actinoids More reactive than lanthanoids

+3 state is more common along with +2 and Can show O.S from +2 to +7 which are not
+4 uncommon

5. Explain the oxidizing action of acidified K2Cr2O7 with a) Iodide ions b) H2S c) Fe2+

Ans: a) Dichromate ions oxidise Iodide ions to elemental Iodine

Cr2O72- + 14H+ + 6I-→ 2Cr3+ + 3I2 + 7H2O

b) Dichromate ions in acidic conditions oxidize H2S to elemental sulfur

Cr2O72- + 8H+ + 3H2S→ 2Cr3+ + 3S + 7H2O

c) Ferrous ions are oxidized to Ferric ions by acidified K2Cr2O7

Cr2O72- + 14H+ + 6Fe2+→ 2Cr3+ + 6Fe3+ + 7H2O

HOTS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

1. Though Ce in +4 state enjoys noble gas configuration , the EoCe4+/Ce3+ reduction potential is
 More positive . Why?

Ans: The energy invested in creating +4 state of Ce( ΔHa + Four Ionsiation enthalpy terms of

Ce) is not effectively compensated by the hydration of Ce4+ ion.

2. When a chromite ore (A) is fused with Sodium carbonate in free excess of air and the product

Is dissolved in water, a yellow solution of the compound(B) is obtained.After treatment of

this yellow solution with Sulfuric acid, compound (C) can be crystallized from the solution.

When compound (C) is treated with KCl, orange crystals of compound(D) crystallize out.

Identify A to D and also explain the reactions.

A= Fe2CrO4, B= Na2CrO4, C= Na2Cr2O7, D= K2Cr2O7

a) 4Fe2CrO4 + 8Na2CO3 + 7O2 → 8 Na2CrO4 + 2Fe2O3 + 8CO2

b) 2Na2CrO4 + 2H+ → Na2Cr2O7 + 2 Na+ + H2O

c) Na2Cr2O7 + 2KCl→ K2Cr2O7 + 2NaCl

3. When an oxide of Manganese (A) is fused with KOH in presence of an oxidizing agent and

dissolved in water , it gives a dark green solution of compound (B). The compound (B)

disproportionate in neutral or acidic solution to give purple compound(C). An alkaline

solution of Compound (C) oxidizes KI solution to a compound (D) and compound (A) is also

formed. Identify compounds A to D and also explain the reactions involved.

Ans: A= MnO2, B= K2MnO4, C= KMnO4 and D = KIO3

a) 2MnO2 + 4KOH + O2 →2K2MnO4 + 2 H2O

b) 3MnO4- + 4H+ → 2 MnO4- + MnO2 + 2H2O

c) 2MnO4- + H2O + KI→ 2MnO2 + 2OH- + KIO3

4. On the basis of lanthanoid contraction explain the following:

a) Nature of bonding in La2O3 and Lu2O3

 b) Stability of complexes of Lanthanoids

d) Trends in acidic character of oxides of lanthanoids

e) The basic character of Hydroxides of lanthanoids

Ans: a) As the size decreases Covalent character increases. Therfore, La 2O3 is ionic and Lu2O3

is more Covalent

b) Stability of the complexes of Lanthanoids increases as the size of lanthanoids decreases

c) Acidic character of Oxides of lanthanoids increases from La to Lu

d) Basic character of hydroxides of lanthanoids decrease from La to Lu

5.Although Cr3+ andCo2+ ions have same no.of unpaired electrons , the magnetic moment of Cr3+

is 3.87BM and that of Co2+ is 4.87 BM. Why?

Ans: Cr3+ has a symmetrical electronic distribution. So there is no Orbital contribution

towards Magnetic moment. In Co2+ the electronic distribution is unsymmetrical and

there is some orbital contribution towards the magnetic moment.

6. Why does Cu not displace Hydrogen from acid?

Eo Cu2+/Cu is more positive than E0H+/H2.

7. Why is the first ionisationenthalpy of Cr lower than that of Zn?

Cr has 3d5 4s1 configuration. By removing one electron from 4s Cr+ attains stable d5

configuration. In Zinc, the electron has to be removed from fully filled 4s orbital.
IMPORTANT CHEMICAL EQUATIONS:

1. 4Fe2CrO4 + 8Na2CO3 + 7O2 → 8 Na2CrO4 + 2Fe2O3 + 8CO2

2Na2CrO4 + 2H+ → Na2Cr2O7 + 2 Na+ + H2O

Na2Cr2O7 + 2KCl→ K2Cr2O7 + 2NaCl

2. Cr2O72- + 14H+ + 6e → 2Cr3+ + 7H2O ( oxidising action of dichromate in acidic medium)

3. Cr2O72- + 2OH- → 2CrO42- + H2O

(Orange) (yellow)

4. Cr2O72- + 8H+ + 3 NO2 -→ 2Cr3+ + 3 NO3- + 4H2O

5. Cr2O72- + 3Sn2+ + 14H+ → 2Cr3+ + 3Sn4+ + 7H2O

6. Cr2O72- + 3H2S + 8H+ → 2Cr3+ + 3S + 7H2O

7. Cr2O72- + 6Fe2+ +14H+ → 2Cr3+ + 6Fe3+ + 7H2O

8. Cr2O72- + 6I-+14H+ → 2Cr3+ + 3I2 + 7H2O

9. MnO4- + 8H+ + 5Fe2+ → Mn2+ + 5Fe3+ + 4H2O

10. 2MnO4- + 10I- + 16H+→ 2 Mn2+ + 5I2 + 8H2O

11. 2MnO4- + H2O + I- → 2 MnO2 + 2OH- + IO3-

12. 2MnO4- + 3Mn2+ + 2H2O → 5 MnO2 + 4H+

13. 2 MnO4- + 16H+ + 5C2O42-→ 2 Mn2+ + 8H2O + 10CO2

14. 2MnO2 + 4KOH + O2 → 2K2MnO4 + 2H2O

15. 2KMnO4 → K2MnO4 + MnO2 + O2 ( decomposition on heating)

READY RECKONER:

S.NO PROPERTY OF TRANSITION METALS REASON

1. Elements from group 3 to 12 are called d block In these elements the d

elements subshell gets progressively
filled with electrons as we go
from L to R along a period
traversing groups 3 to 12.

2. Sc to Zn are called 3d series elements. In these elements it is the 3d

subshell that gets
progressively filled with
electrons as we move from L
to R along the 4th period of
the periodic table.

3 Y to Cd are called 4d series elements In these elements it is the 4d

subshell that gets
progressively filled with
electrons as we move from L
to R along the 5th period of
the periodic table.

4 La to Hg are called 5d series elements In these elements it is the 5d

subshell that gets
progressively filled with
electrons as we move from L
to R along the 6th period of
the periodic table.

6 Ac to Cn (Copernicium) are called 6d series In these elements it is the 6d

elements subshell that gets
progressively filled with
electrons as we move from L
to R along the 7th period of
the periodic table.

7 Group 12 elements viz., Zn, Cd and Hg are not Because the atoms of these
considered as transition elements elements possess fully filled d
subshell (d10) in their ground
state and in excited state ie.,
 +2

8. Sc is a transition element whereas Zn is not. Sc has d1 configuration . It

has incompletely filled d
subshell in its ground state
whereas in Zinc in both
ground state and +2 excited
state d subshell is completely
filled

9. Ag has completely filled d orbitals (4d10) in its Ag in +2 state has

ground state, yet it is a transition element. incompletely filled d subshell
(d9)

10. Transition elements generally have high These elements have unpaired
enthalpies of atomisation. electrons which can
participate in Inter Atomic
Metallic Bonding which in
turn makes the enthalpy of
atomisation high.

11 Among the 3d series elements Zn has the lowest Zn has no unpaired

enthalpy of atomisation and hence is the softest electrons(3d104s2). So
among 3d series elements participation of these
electrons in IAMB is less.

12 In 3d series Mn has the largest number of The 3d and 4s orbitals are

oxidation states. close in energy so Manganese
has max.number of electrons
(3d54s2) to lose or to share .
So it can show O.s from +2 to
+7. It has max. no. of
unpaired electrons(5 unpaired
electrons)

13 Among the divalent cations of 3d series the Because the hydration

EoM2+/M value for Cu2+ reduction is most enthalpy of Cu2+ is low and
positive (+0.34V) not able to overcome
Enthalpy of atomisation and
Ionisation enthalpy (First IE
and second IE)

14 Cu is a poor reducing agent among the metals of E0Cu2+/Cu = +0.34V.

 3d series Because the hydration
enthalpy of Cu2+ is low and
not able to overcome
Enthalpy of atomisation and
Ionisation enthalpy (First IE
and second IE)

15. There is an irregular trend in the first ionisation It is due to varying degree of
enthalpies of first transition series (3d) stability of different 3d
configurations do,d5 and d10
which are exceptionally
stable.

16 Transition metals exhibit variable oxidation states The energy difference

between (n-1)d and ns
orbitals in which valence
electrons are present is quite
less. So electrons can get
excited to higher orbitals
easily and can enter into
bonding process leading to
variable oxidation states.

17 Highest oxidation state of a metal is exhibited in Fluorine and Oxygen being

its oxide or fluoride only small and most
electronegative elements can
stabilize metals in their
highest oxidation states.

18 Cr2+ is a better reducing agent than Fe2+ A reducing agent is electron

donor. Cr2+ by losing one
electron becomes Cr3+ (d3)
which is stabilised by half
filled t2g configuration.

Fe2+ upon donating one

electron becomes Fe3+ (d5)
which has t2g3 eg2
configuration which is not as
stable as half filled t2g
configuration

19. Cr2+ and Mn3+ are d4 systems. Yet the former is Cr2+ donates one electron to
 a Reducing agent and the latter is an oxidising give Cr3+ which stabilised by
agent half filled t2g configuration.
On the other hand Mn3+
readily accepts one elctron to
become Mn2+ which is
stabilised by d5 configuration
(half filled d sub shell)

20 The spin only magnetic moment of M2+ ion with It has three unpaired electrons
Z= 27 is 3.87BM

21 Cu+ is not stable in aqueous solution Cu+ undergoes

disproportionation to form
Cu2+ and Cu. The ion Cu2+
has more negative hydration
enthalpy in comparison to
Cu+

22 The atomic and ionic sizes of elements Ce to Lu This is due to the poor
decreases gradually in 4f series . (Lanthanoid shielding effect of 4f orbitals.
contracti0n)

23 Zr and Hf have similar atomic radii though they Lanthanoid contraction

belong to the same group

24 Lu3+ is more heavily hydrated than Ce3+ Lanthanoid contraction

25 The hardness, boiling points and melting points of Lanthanoid contraction

lanthanoid elements increase from Ce to Lu

26 PHYSICAL SEPARATION OF Zr/Hf, Nb/Ta and Lanthanoid contraction

Mo/W becomes difficult

27 The basic character of hydroxides of Lanthanoid Lanthanoid contraction

elements decreases from Ce(OH)3 to Lu(OH)3

28 Transition metals and their compounds are They have unpaired electrons
paramagnetic

29 Transition metals form complexes Transition metal atoms/ions

have high charge, small size
and vacant d orbitals

30 Transition metal ions and their compounds are d-d transition

 colored

31 Transition metals and their compounds act as They adopt multiple

catalysts oxidation states and provide
larger surface area for
adsorption to occur

32 Transition metals form alloys The sizes of various transition

elements do not vary much.
The variation is not greater
than 10%. So various
transition metals can combine
easily to form alloys.

33 Transition metals form interstitial compounds The Void sizes in transition

metal lattices are compatible
to trap atoms like H,N,C etc.
Therefore they can form
Interstitial compounds.

34 KMnO4 is purple coloured LMCT

35 K2Cr2O7 is orange coloured LMCT

36 Compounds of SC3+ are colourless Sc3+ is do ion. So no

unpaired electrons and no d-d
transition.

37 Actinoid contraction is more than Lanthanoid The 5f orbitals in actinoid

contraction elements are very poor
shielders as they are more
diffuse than 4f orbitals in
lanthanoid elements.

38 CuI2 is not known Cu2+ oxidises I- to I2

39 Though Fluorine is more electronegative than Oxygen can form multiple

Oxygen, it is the Oxygen that is more versatile in bonds with the metal.
stabilizing the highest oxidation state of metals

40 The highest oxidation state is exhibited in the oxo Oxygen is electronegative

anions of the metal and can form multiple bonds
with the metal
41 The lowest oxide of transition metal is basic, the With increase in oxidation
highest is amphoteric or acidic state of metal, positive charge
density increases and so the
acidic character increases

42 The EoMn2+/Mn is -1.18V and that of Fe2+ Mn2+ due its d5

reduction to Fe is -0.44V configuration is more stable
than Fe2+.

43 The complex [Ti(H2O)6]3+ is purple in colour d-d transition of a lone

electron from t2g to eg set of
d orbitals . The colour seen is
complementary to the colour
absorbed.

44 Transition metals have more melting points Due to the presence of

unpaired electrons and their
participation in the Inter
atomic metallic bonding
makes the metallic bonding
stronger and the melting
points generally remain high.

45 Enthalpy of atomisation of Cr is more than that of The outer shell electronic

Mn configuration of Cr is 3d5
4s1. The participation of the
lone electron in 4s is more in
IAMB.

46 MnF7 is unknown whereas MnO4- is known Find the reason

47 When KMnO4 solution is added to Oxalic acid Mn2+ acts as a catalyst

solution , the decolourisation is slow in the
beginning but becomes instantaneous after
sometime because----

48 HCl(aq) is not used to make the medium acidic in KMnO4 oxidises HCl to Cl2
oxidation reactions of KMnO4 in acidic medium which is also an oxidising
agent.

49 Actinoids exhibit greater range of oxidation states In actinoids 5f,6d and 7s

in comparison to those of lanthanoids levels are of comparable
energies.
50 Cr3+ in aqueous solution is more stable than Find the reason.
Mn3+ or Fe3+

51 E0Mn3+/Mn2+ is much more positive than Find the reason.

EoFe3+/Fe2+ or EoCr3+/Cr2+

LANTHANOIDS AND ACTINOIDS

COMPARISON OF THE CHEMISTRY OF LANTHANOIDS WITH THAT OF ACTINOIDS

LANTHANOIDS ACTINOIDS

ELECTRONIC [Xe] 4f1-14 5d0-1 6s2 [Rn]5f1-146d0-17s2

CONFIGURATIO
N

OXIDATION Show limited oxidation states (+2,+3,+4) Shows large number of

STATE and +3 is most common oxidation states from +3 to
+7
Energy gap among 4f, 5d and 6s orbitals
is comparatively more Energy gap among 5f,6d
and 7s orbitals is
comparatively less

ATOMIC AND Show lanthanoid contraction Show actinoid contraction

IONIC SIZES

CHEMICAL 1. Liberate H2 gas upon reaction 1. React with HCl

REACTIVITY with acids 2. With oxidising acids
2. On heating with H2) form like HNO3 a
hydroxides with the liberation of protective oxide
H2 layer is formed over
3. React with S to form Ln2S3 the metal and the
4. React with X2 to form LnX3 metal becomes
5. React with C to form LnC2 passive
6. React with N2 to form LnN 3. Actinoids on heating
7. React with O2 to form Ln2O3 with water form
oxide and hydride

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS:
1. Name the members of lanthanoid series which exhibit +4 oxidation state and those which
exhibit +2 oxidation state. Try to correlate this type of behavior with the electronic
configurations of these elements

Answer: a) The formation of Ce4+ is favoured by its noble gas configuration.

Ce(58) = [Xe] 4f1 5d1 6s2 ; Ce4+= [Xe] 4f0

b) Tb(65) = [Xe] 4f9 6s2 ; Tb4+ = [Xe] 4f7

Tb4+ has half filled f-orbitals . So it exists.

c) Eu(63) = [Xe] 4f7 6s2 ; Eu2+ = [Xe] 4f7

Yb[70] = [Xe] 4f14 6s2 ; Yb2+ = [Xe] 4f14

The half filled and fully filled f subshell account for the formation of these ions.

2. Write the electronic configurations of elements with atomic numbers 61,91,101 and 109.
(Refer book)
3. What is Misch metal? What is its use? (Refer book) [very important]

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------