Question

Why do transition elements exhibit metallic character?

Answer 1

1. Transition elements have low ionisation energies, making it easier to lose electrons and form metallic bonds.
2. They possess several vacant orbitals in their outermost shells, which facilitate the overlapping of orbitals and formation of metallic bonds.
3. The presence of unpaired d-electrons allows overlap of d-orbitals, forming covalent bonds, contributing to the metal's hardness.
4. Both metallic and covalent bonding coexist, resulting in typical metallic properties like high melting points, hardness, electrical conductivity, and metallic luster.
5. The number of unpaired electrons influences the strength of metallic bonds, thus affecting melting and boiling points.