Transition metals vs Group 1

What you need to know

• Transition elements are metals whose properties differ from those of Group 1 metals.
• Melting points, densities, strength and hardness are key physical properties used in the comparison.
• Reactivity with oxygen, water and the halogens also differs from Group 1.
• Many transition elements have ions with different charges, form coloured compounds and are useful as catalysts.

The big picture

Transition elements are metals with similar properties that differ from the Group 1 alkali metals. Their melting points, densities, strength and hardness differ, as does their reactivity with oxygen, water and the halogens. Many transition elements can form ions with different charges, form coloured compounds and act as useful catalysts. Compounds of chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel and copper are used to exemplify these typical transition-metal properties.

Build the whole idea

Move from comparison to the typical properties of transition elements.

1. 1

   Start with physical differences

   Transition metals have higher melting points and higher densities than Group 1 metals, and are stronger and harder.

2. 2

   Add reaction differences

   They are less reactive with oxygen, water and the halogens than Group 1 metals.

3. 3

   Notice their ions and compounds

   Many transition elements have ions with different charges and form coloured compounds.

4. 4

   Finish with usefulness

   Many transition elements are useful as catalysts, completing the set of typical properties.

5. 5

   Connect the examples

   Compounds of Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and Cu are used to exemplify these typical transition-metal properties.

Typical transition-metal features

These are the recurring properties to remember after the Group 1 comparison.

Core language

Tap through the phrases that organise the whole topic.

Predict, then check

Choose the statement that captures the typical properties most completely.

Which statement gives the best summary of the typical properties of many transition elements?

Memory hook

Think PIC-C: Properties differ, Ions can have different charges, Coloured compounds, Catalysts.

Check yourself

Which three typical transition-metal properties should you remember after comparing them with Group 1?