Question:

Atomic radii is a useful property for determining many aspects of chemistry of elements such as physical and chemical properties. The periodic table greatly assists in finding a number of trends. The transition metals belong to group 3 - 12 and are generally characterised by partially filled d-orbitals in the free elements or their cations. The atomic radii of transition metals show a small decrease from left to right across a period, then remain nearly constant, and finally, slight increase towards the end of the series. The trend is a result of interplay between the increasing nuclear charge and the increasing shielding effect from the filling of d-orbitals. Initially the nuclear charge dominates, leading to decrease in size, but as more d-electrons are added, their shielding becomes more effective, balancing the increased nuclear charge and causing the radii to become constant.

The increase in size between 3d and 4d metals is much greater than between the 4d and 5d metals. The atomic radii of 2nd and 3rd series are almost the same due to lanthanoid contraction. Increase in density is also observed on moving from left to right in a period.

Why do transition metals have high \( \Delta_{a}H^{\circ} \) ?

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Many unpaired (n-1)d electrons join the ns electrons in metallic bonding. The bonds are strong, so atomisation needs a lot of energy.
Updated On: Oct 22, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Meaning of the term:
\( \Delta_{a}H^{\circ} \) is the enthalpy of atomisation. It is the energy needed to convert one mole of the solid metal into gaseous atoms.

Step 2: Link it to the bonding in the metal:
Transition metals have many unpaired electrons in the (n-1)d subshell, besides the ns electrons.
All of these electrons take part in metallic bonding between the atoms.
More electrons in bonding means stronger interatomic attraction, so the metallic bond is very strong.
A lot of energy is needed to break these bonds and free the atoms.
Hence the values of \( \Delta_{a}H^{\circ} \) are high. The metals also have high melting and boiling points for the same reason.

Final Answer:
Many unpaired (n-1)d electrons add to the ns electrons in metallic bonding, so the bonds are strong and atomisation needs a lot of energy.
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