What is the Difference Between Transition Metals and Metals?

The main difference between transition metals and other metals lies in their atomic structure and properties. Transition metals are those that belong to the d-block of the periodic table, while other metals belong to the s-block and p-block. Here are some key differences between transition metals and other metals:

1. Electronegativity: Transition metals are more electronegative than main group metals, making them more likely to form covalent compounds.
2. Colored Compounds: Transition metals have the ability to form colored compounds due to d-d electronic transitions, while other metals usually do not form colored compounds.
3. Paramagnetic Compounds: Transition metals can form paramagnetic compounds, which are compounds with unpaired electrons that align with a magnetic field.
4. Oxidation States: Transition metals can have various oxidation states within compounds, but other metals can have a limited number of oxidation states, often just one.
5. Reactivity: Transition metals are generally less reactive compared to other metals, such as those in the s-block.
6. Melting Points and Densities: Transition metals have higher melting points and densities compared to main group metals.
7. Charge-to-Radius Ratio: Transition metals have a higher charge-to-radius ratio than main group metals, making it easier for them to form covalent bonds.
8. Catalytic Properties: Transition metals are more often used as catalysts in reactions than main group metals.

Comparative Table: Transition Metals vs Metals

Here is a table comparing the differences between transition metals and main-group metals:

Transition metals, such as iron and copper, are found in the d-block of the periodic table and can form multiple charges due to their partially filled d-subshell. On the other hand, main-group metals, like sodium and magnesium, are found in the s-block and p-block of the periodic table and usually form charges that are the same as their group number. Transition metals are generally less active than main-group metals.