MCQ Detailed View

Transition elements are chemical elements that belong to the d-block of the periodic table. These elements are characterized by having partially filled d-orbitals, which gives them unique chemical and physical properties. Copper (Cu) is a classic example of a transition element.

Transition elements typically exhibit variable oxidation states, meaning they can form ions with different charges. For instance, copper can exist as Cu⁺ and Cu²⁺. This property allows them to form a wide variety of compounds and participate in complex chemical reactions.

Another important feature of transition elements is that they often form colored compounds. For example, copper compounds like CuSO₄ (copper sulfate) are blue, which is a direct result of d-electron transitions within the element. They also have high melting points, high density, and are usually good conductors of heat and electricity.

In contrast, elements like Chlorine (Cl) and Sulfur (S) are not transition elements. Chlorine is a halogen, part of the p-block, and Sulfur is a non-metal. They do not have partially filled d-orbitals and do not exhibit the typical properties of transition metals.

Transition elements are widely used in industrial applications, such as catalysts in chemical reactions, in electrical wiring (copper), and in alloys. Understanding which elements are transition metals is essential in chemistry, particularly in topics like the periodic table, inorganic chemistry, and coordination compounds.

By identifying Copper (Cu) as a transition element, students can recognize its special properties, reactivity patterns, and its importance in both chemical reactions and practical applications. This knowledge is a foundational part of modern chemistry studies.