Transition Metals
Chemistry: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 1.1.26
Transition Metals
The transition metals are found in the middle of the periodic table. To their left is Group 2 and to their right is Group 3. Relative to the alkali metals, transition metals have:
Higher melting points
- Transition metals have higher melting points than alkali metals.
- E.g. Iron's melting point is 1,583°C, whereas sodium’s is about 98°C.
- High melting points make transition metals useful for cooking equipment.
Higher density
- Transition metals have more mass for the same volume than alkali metals.
- The high density makes transition metals useful in construction.
Greater strength and hardness
- Transition metals are stronger and harder than alkali metals.
Lower reactivity
- Transition metals are less reactive than alkali metals.
- E.g. Iron takes weeks to rust when in contact with oxygen and water, whereas sodium does this in a few seconds.
Test yourself on Transition Metals
Which of the following are transition metals?
What are the melting points of transition metals usually like compared with alkali metals?
Why are transition metals often used to make cooking equipment such as pans?
Why are transition metals useful for construction, such as building bridges and beams?
Iron takes weeks to rust in air and water, but sodium reacts within seconds under the same conditions. What does this comparison show?