Assign reasons for the following:
The enthalpies of atomisation of transition metals are high.
Transition metal has high heat of atomisation due to presence of strong metallic bond which arises due to presence of unpaired electron in the (n - 1) d subshell. This is because the atoms in these elements are closely packed and held together by strong metallic bonds. The metallic bond is formed as a result of the interaction of electrons in the outermost shell. Greater the number of valence electrons, stronger is the metallic bond.
How is the variability in the oxidation states of transition metals different from that of the nontransition metals? Illustrate with examples.
In what way are the observed oxidation states of the lanthanides related to their electronic configurations?
Describe the general characteristics of the transition elements with special reference to their tendency to:
(i) Exhibit paramagnetism.
(ii) Form complex compounds.
(iii) Their catalytic behaviour.
