Transition metals often display subtle variations in periodic properties
CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · A Level · Chemistry · Transition metals and their chemistry · Transition metals and their chemistry
Problem
Transition metals often display subtle variations in periodic properties. Consider the following first-row transition metals in their elemental (neutral atom) form: Titanium (Ti), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), and Zinc (Zn).
(a) Using their ground-state electron configurations, discuss how the filling of the 3d subshell changes from Ti to Zn.
(b) Rank the four atoms in order of increasing electronegativity.
Present your answer in the form: lowest < \dots < highest.
(c) Provide a comprehensive justification for the ranking in part (b) that accounts for effective nuclear charge, the influence of 3d-electron shielding, and any irregularities unique to transition metals.
(d) Predict how the electronegativity of Gallium (Ga), which lies immediately after Zn in Period 4, would compare to that of Zn. Support your prediction with reference to periodic trends and subshell occupancy.