Learning objective
Explain variable oxidation states in transition metals.
Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.
At a glance
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Flashcards
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Questions
Topic
Transition metals (A-level only)
Subtopic
Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only)
Study support
Understand this objective
Quick explanation
Explain variable oxidation states in transition metals
- This point belongs to Transition metals (A-level only), especially Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only).
- You need to be able to explain variable oxidation states in transition metals.
- The key ideas to know are variable oxidation state and transition metal.
- Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.
Key concepts
Why it matters
This objective helps connect Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only) to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Transition metals (A-level only).
Quick student answer
Which of the following transition metals can exhibit the highest oxidation state?
Direct answer
Manganese (Mn)
Key terms
- Oxidation state: The charge of an atom in a compound, which can vary for transition metals based on the number of electrons lost.
- Coordination number: The number of ligand donor atoms that are bonded to the central metal atom in a complex.
Common trap
Confusing oxidation states with charges: Remember that oxidation states refer to individual elements, while the charge refers to the entire compound.
Related questions
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Flashcard prompts
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Revision tools
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Revision notestopic notes
Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.
Open revision notesRelated learning objectives
- Define a transition metal as a d-block element forming at least one ion with an incomplete d subshell.
Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only)
- Explain why transition-metal ions are often coloured.
Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only)
- Explain catalytic activity of transition metals and their compounds.
Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only)
- Define ligand and coordinate bond.
Complex ions and ligand substitution (A-level only)
- Explain coordination number in complex ions.
Complex ions and ligand substitution (A-level only)