Question

How would you account for the following : Transition metals form coloured compounds

Explain The transition metals generally form coloured compounds.

Answer 1

In the presence of ligands, the d-orbitals of transition metal ions split up into two sets of orbitals having different energies. Thus, the transition of electrons takes place from one set to another. The energy required for these transitions is quite less and falls in the visible region of radiation. The ions of transition metals absorb the radiation of a particular wavelength and the rest is reflected, imparting colour to the solution.

Answer 2

Most of the complexes of transition metals are coloured. This is because of the absorption of radiation from visible light region to promote an electron from one of the d−orbitals to another. In the presence of ligands, the d-orbitals split up into two sets of orbitals having different energies. Therefore, the transition of electrons can take place from one set toanother. The energy required for these transitions is quite small and falls in the visible region of radiation. The ions of transition metals absorb the radiation of a particular wavelength and the rest is reflected, imparting colour to the solution