Seekh Logo

AI-powered learning platform providing comprehensive practice questions, detailed explanations, and interactive study tools across multiple subjects.

Explore Subjects

Sciences
  • Astronomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
Humanities
  • Psychology
  • History
  • Philosophy

Learning Tools

  • Study Library
  • Practice Quizzes
  • Flashcards
  • Study Summaries
  • Q&A Bank
  • PDF to Quiz Converter
  • Video Summarizer
  • Smart Flashcards

Support

  • Help Center
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Pricing

© 2025 Seekh Education. All rights reserved.

Seekh Logo
HomeHomework HelpchemistryOxidation States in Transition Metals

Oxidation States in Transition Metals

Oxidation states, or oxidation numbers, indicate the degree of oxidation of an atom in a chemical compound, reflecting the number of electrons lost or gained. In transition metals, these states can vary, leading to complex coordination chemistry and various oxidation states based on ligand interactions.

intermediate
2 hours
Chemistry
0 views this week
Study FlashcardsQuick Summary
0

Overview

Oxidation states in transition metals are crucial for understanding their chemical behavior. These metals can exhibit multiple oxidation states due to their unique electron configurations, allowing them to participate in a variety of chemical reactions. This variability is essential in fields such a...

Quick Links

Study FlashcardsQuick SummaryPractice Questions

Key Terms

Oxidation State
The charge of an atom in a compound, indicating the number of electrons lost or gained.

Example: In FeCl₃, iron has an oxidation state of +3.

Transition Metal
Elements found in the d-block of the periodic table, known for their ability to form variable oxidation states.

Example: Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) are transition metals.

Ligand
A molecule or ion that binds to a central metal atom to form a coordination complex.

Example: Water (H₂O) can act as a ligand in coordination compounds.

Coordination Compound
A compound consisting of a central metal atom bonded to surrounding ligands.

Example: Hexaamminecobalt(III) chloride is a coordination compound.

Redox Reaction
A chemical reaction involving the transfer of electrons between two species.

Example: The reaction between zinc and copper sulfate is a redox reaction.

Oxidation
The process of losing electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation state.

Example: In the reaction, Fe → Fe²⁺ + 2e⁻, iron is oxidized.

Related Topics

Coordination Chemistry
Study of coordination compounds and their properties.
intermediate
Electrochemistry
Exploration of chemical processes that generate electricity.
advanced
Redox Chemistry
Focus on oxidation and reduction reactions in various contexts.
intermediate

Key Concepts

Variable oxidation statesCoordination compoundsLigandsRedox reactions