Grade 12 – Chapter 4: d-Block & f-
Block Elements (Full Detailed Notes)
1. Definition of Transition Elements
Transition elements are d-block elements whose atoms or ions contain partially
filled d-orbitals. They form colored compounds, exhibit multiple oxidation states,
magnetic behavior, and catalytic properties.
2. Position in the Periodic Table
Located in groups 3–12. They act as a bridge between s-block and p-block elements.
3. Electronic Configuration
General configuration: (n−1)d¹–¹⁰ ns⁰–². Example: Fe → [Ar] 3d⁶ 4s². Elements like
Cu, Ag, Au show stable fully filled d¹⁰ configuration.
4. General Characteristics
• Variable oxidation states
• Formation of colored ions
• High melting and boiling points
• Ability to form complexes
• Paramagnetic nature
• Formation of alloys
• Formation of interstitial compounds
5. Physical Properties
• High density
• Strong metallic bonding
• Good conductors of heat and electricity
6. Oxidation States with Explanation
Due to small energy difference between ns and (n−1)d orbitals.
Examples:
Mn → +2 to +7
Cr → +2, +3, +6
Fe → +2, +3
7. Color of Transition Metal Ions
Color arises from d–d transitions.
Examples:
Ti³+ → purple
Cr³+ → green
MnO₄⁻ → purple
Cu²+ → blue
8. Magnetic Properties
Magnetism depends on unpaired electrons.
Magnetic moment μ = √n(n+2) BM.
9. Catalytic Properties
Transition metals act as catalysts due to multiple oxidation states and large surface
area.
Examples:
Fe → Haber process
V₂O₅ → Contact process
Ni → Hydrogenation
10. Complex Formation
They form complexes due to small ionic size and availability of vacant d orbitals.
Examples: [Fe(CN)₆]⁴⁻, [Cu(NH₃)₄]²⁺
11. Interstitial Compounds
Small atoms like H, C, N enter interstitial sites.
Examples: TiC, Fe₃C
12. Alloy Formation
Similar atomic sizes allow alloy formation.
Examples: Brass (Cu+Zn), Bronze (Cu+Sn), Stainless steel
13. Important Compounds of d-Block
Potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) – orange
Potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) – purple
Ferrous sulfate (FeSO₄·7H₂O) – green vitriol
Copper sulfate (CuSO₄·5H₂O) – blue vitriol
14. f-Block Elements
These elements involve filling of f orbitals. Includes lanthanides and actinides.
General configuration: (n−2)f¹–¹⁴ (n−1)d⁰–¹ ns².
15. Lanthanides
• Show +3 oxidation state
• Exhibit lanthanide contraction
• Colored ions due to f–f transitions
• High magnetic moment
16. Lanthanide Contraction
Gradual decrease in ionic radii due to poor shielding by 4f electrons.
Consequences:
• Similarity between Zr and Hf
• Difficulty in lanthanide separation
17. Actinides
• Show +3 to +7 oxidation states
• Mostly radioactive
• Exhibit actinide contraction
• Greater range of complex formation
18. Important Compounds of Actinides
U₃O₈ – nuclear fuel
ThO₂ – used in reactors
PuO₂ – plutonium-based nuclear fuel
19. Applications of d- & f-Block Elements
• Catalysts
• Alloys
• Electronic components
• Pigments and dyes
• Nuclear fuel materials