Question

Why do most of the transition metal ions exhibit characteristic colour in aqueous solution?

Answer 1

Hey !!

Most of the transition metal ions exhibit characteristic colours in aqueous solution because of d-d transitions, as they have maximum number of unpaired electrons.

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Answer 2

Due to d-d transition, most of the transition metal ions exhibit characteristic color in aqueous solution

• The transition metal ions absorb radiations from the visible region to undergo a transition between d orbitals.
• This is the reason for the color shown by transition metal ions.
• Generally, transition metal ions have one or more unpaired electrons.
• On absorption of radiation of sufficient energy, these unpaired electrons undergo a transition between the d orbitals.
• Examples Co²+ shows the pink color and Cu²+ shows blue-green color
• A related situation is the flame test carried out to confirm the metal ions.