Atomic StructureKey Facts
Special Properties of Transition Metals
Part of Transition Metals (HT) — GCSE Chemistry
This key facts covers Special Properties of Transition Metals within Transition Metals (HT) for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Transition Metals (HT) in Atomic Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 5 of 12 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 5 of 12
Practice
20 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
✨ Special Properties of Transition Metals
1. They form COLOURED compounds
- Copper compounds → blue (copper sulfate solution)
- Iron(II) compounds → green
- Iron(III) compounds → orange/brown
- This is why transition metal compounds are used as pigments and dyes
2. They can form ions with DIFFERENT charges
- Iron can be Fe²⁺ (iron(II)) OR Fe³⁺ (iron(III))
- Copper can be Cu⁺ (copper(I)) OR Cu²⁺ (copper(II))
- Group 1 metals can ONLY form +1 ions
3. They are used as CATALYSTS
- Iron — catalyst in the Haber process (making ammonia)
- Nickel — catalyst for hydrogenation (making margarine)
- Platinum — catalyst in catalytic converters (cleaning car exhausts)