Question

Q.Which one of the following are not a transition elements :- Cu(29), Sc(21) and Zn(30). It would be better if the answer is explained.
Can anyone please answer this question! ​

Answer 1

Answer:

Sc(21) and Zn(30) are not considered to be transition metals.

Explanation:

A transition metal is one which forms one or more stable ions with partially filled (or incompletely filled) d orbitals.

The Sc^3+ and Zn^2+ do not fulfill this definition, as Sc^3+ has no electrons in d orbital and Zn^2+ has completely filled d orbital.

Answer 2

Sc is not the transition element.

• The general valance shell electronic configuration of transition elements are-
• ${(n - 1)d}^{1 - 10}$
• Thus transition elements have 1-10 electrons in the d orbital.
• The transition elements are Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn.
• Only Sc in its +3 oxidation state has zero electrons in the d orbital. So, then it is not considered as a transition element.
• Thus Sc in +3 oxidation state is not a transition element.