Transition Metals
Chemistry: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 8.4.1
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.
- Gold has a melting point of 1064°C.
- High melting points make them useful for cooking equipment.
Higher density
- Transition metals have more mass for the same volume than alkali metals.
- The high density makes them 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?
Compared to alkali metals, the melting points of transition metals are usually...