Lesson 2.8 Transition Metal Properties

Transition metals

The transition metals are found near the middle of the periodic table.

They are found in-between the 'grouped' metals and the non-metals.

Physical properties

The transition metals usually have the following properties:

• Good thermal conductor

• Good electrical conductor

• Malleable (can be bent)

• High melting point

• High boiling point

• Hard

• Tough

• High density

Atomic properties

Many transition metals can form ions of different charges.

They sometimes form coloured compounds.

They are very useful as catalysts in chemical reactions.