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)
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 21 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. 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.
Practice questions for Transition Metals (HT)
Where in the periodic table are the transition metals located?
Explain why copper is a useful metal for electrical wiring.
Quick recall flashcards
What is a catalyst?
A substance that speeds up a reaction without being used up
Name 3 transition metals
Iron, Copper, Nickel (also Zinc, Gold, Silver, Platinum)