Question

The incorrect statement regarding d-block elements is:

• A. Zinc is a transition element
• B. Most transition metals exhibit variable oxidation states
• C. Transition metals generally form coloured ions
• D. Transition metals frequently form complexes

Hint:

Remember: Zn, Cd and Hg are generally not considered transition elements because their common ions possess completely filled \(d^{10}\) configurations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: A transition element is one whose atom or one of its common oxidation states possesses an incomplete d-subshell.

Step 1: Examine zinc. Electronic configuration of Zn: \[ [Ar]3d^{10}4s^2 \] Common oxidation state: \[ Zn^{2+}=[Ar]3d^{10} \] The d-subshell remains completely filled. Hence Zn does not satisfy the definition of a transition element.

Step 2: Analyze remaining statements.
• Variable oxidation states are common because energies of ns and (n−1)d orbitals are similar.
• Many ions are coloured due to d-d transitions.
• Complex formation is a characteristic property because of high charge density and availability of vacant orbitals. All these statements are correct. Thus the incorrect statement is: \[ \text{Zinc is a transition element} \] Hence option (A) is correct.