What are Representative and Transition Elements?
Elements in the periodic table are divided into different categories based on their properties. Representative elements belong to groups 1, 2, and 13-18, showing a wide range of chemical behavior. Transition elements, found in groups 3-12, have partially filled d-orbitals, making them unique in reactivity and metallic properties. These elements differ in their electronic configurations, chemical properties, and positions in the periodic table. Let us understand deeply the differences between representative and transition elements.
Key Differences Between Representative and Transition Elements
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FAQs on Difference Between Representative and Transition Elements
1. What are called representative elements?
Representative elements are found in groups 1, 2, and 13-18 of the periodic table. They include metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, showing a variety of properties.
2. Which are called transition elements?
Transition elements are metals found in groups 3-12. They have partially filled d-orbitals, form coloured compounds, and have multiple oxidation states.
3. How do representative and transition elements differ in terms of orbitals?
Representative elements fill s- and p-orbitals, while transition elements have electrons in d-orbitals, affecting their properties and bonding behaviour.
4. What is the difference between transition metals and transition elements?
Transition elements include all d-block elements, while transition metals specifically refer to those exhibiting variable oxidation states and forming coloured ions.
5. How are representative and transition elements numbered in the periodic table?
Representative elements belong to groups 1, 2, and 13-18, while transition elements are in groups 3-12, positioned between the two.
6. What are SPDF block elements?
SPDF blocks classify elements based on the orbitals being filled- s-block (groups 1-2), p-block (groups 13-18), d-block (transition metals), and f-block (lanthanoids and actinoids).
7. What is the difference between lanthanoids and actinoids?
Lanthanoids (atomic numbers 57-71) are rare earth metals, while actinoids (89-103) include radioactive elements like uranium and thorium, used in nuclear energy.
8. What is the difference between transition and non-transition elements?
Transition elements have partially filled d orbitals and show variable oxidation states. Non-transition elements, like representative elements, have completely filled or empty d orbitals and follow a fixed valency pattern.
9. How can we differentiate representative and transition elements through group numbers?
Representative elements are in groups 1, 2, and 13-18, while transition elements are in groups 3-12. The group number helps classify elements based on their valency and electronic configuration.
10. What is the difference between a representative element and a transition element in terms of orbitals being filled?
Representative elements fill their outermost s and p orbitals, while transition elements fill d orbitals. This difference affects their chemical properties and oxidation states.
