Learning objective
Explain why transition-metal ions are often coloured.
Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.
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Topic
Transition metals (A-level only)
Subtopic
Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only)
Study support
Understand this objective
Quick explanation
Explain why transition-metal ions are often coloured
- This point belongs to Transition metals (A-level only), especially Transition-metal characteristics (A-level only).
- You need to be able to explain why transition-metal ions are often coloured.
- The key ideas to know are ions, coloured, 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 statements correctly explains why transition metal ions are often coloured?
Direct answer
B) They have partially filled d-orbitals that allow for d-d transitions.
Key terms
- Ligand: A ligand is a molecule or ion that donates a pair of electrons to a central metal atom or ion to form a coordination complex.
- d-d transition: A d-d transition is the movement of an electron between different d-orbitals in a transition metal ion, which can result in the absorption of light and the appearance of colour.
Common trap
Confusing absorption with reflection: Remember that transition metals absorb specific wavelengths of light, and the colour observed is the complementary colour of the absorbed light.
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Revision tools
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Revision notestopic notes
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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 variable oxidation states in transition metals.
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)