The transition metals are d-block elements (Groups 3-12 of the Periodic Table) whose atoms have a partially filled d-orbital or that form cations with partially filled d-orbitals. This means that when we are considering the transition metals of Period 4, scandium and zinc are not classified as transition metals although they are d-block elements.
You can find everything you need to know about the transition metals right here!
Writing the electron configuration for transition metal atoms and ions
• why are chromium and copper are the odd ones out?
Complex ions, ligands and chelate rings
• how are complex ions are formed with ligands?
• what is a chelate ring?
Coordination chemistry
• what is a coordination number?
• drawing octahedral, square planar and tetrahedral complexes
Isomerism in complex ions
• structural (ionisation), cis-trans (geometric) and optical isomers
• how does cis-platin fight cancer tumours?
Understanding the acid-base behaviour of transition metal complexes
• hydrolysis reactions in hexa aqua complexes
• acid-base reactions with hydroxide ions, ammonia and carbonate ions
• extensive exam Q&A
Ligand exchange reactions in transition metal complexes
• replacing water ligands with ammonia
• replacing water ligands with chloride ions
How to identify transition metal ions in solution
• precipitation reactions with hydroxide ions
• precipitation reactions with carbonate ions