A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

Transition Metals

Sc Ti V MnCr Fe Co Ni Cu Zn

MoNbZr Tc CdAgPdRhRu

Hf Ta W Re Os Ir Pt Au Hg

CnRgDsMtHsBhSgDbRf

Y

This is the largest set of elements in the periodic table. This block of

metals contains useful elements, such as gold (Au), iron (Fe), and copper

(Cu). Many of these metals are easy to shape. The fourth period of the

block – from rutherfordium (Rf) to copernicium (Cn) – are artificial and

do not occur in nature. They were created by scientists in laboratories.

Atomic structure

Most transition

metals have two

outer electrons, but

a few, such as copper

(Cu), have just one.

Physical properties

These elements are generally

hard and dense metals. Mercury

(Hg), the only element that is

liquid at room temperature,

also belongs to this group.

Chemical properties

Transition metals are not as

reactive as alkali and alkaline

earth metals. However, they

form many varied and

colourful compounds.

Compounds

Many compounds of

transition metals are brightly

coloured. These metals

are often used in alloys,

such as brass and steel.

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