Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Chemistry of transition elements

Chemistry of transition elements — practice question

Transition elements can make stable complexes with a wide variety of molecules and ions.
(a)[1]

State what is meant by transition element.

(b(i))[1]

The $d$ orbitals in an isolated transition metal ion are degenerate. In complexes, the $d$ orbitals are divided into two energy levels. Complete the diagram to show the arrangement of $d$ orbital energy levels in octahedral complexes and in tetrahedral complexes.

(b(ii))[2]

Sketch the shape of two $d$ orbitals: • one $d$ orbital from the lower energy level in an octahedral complex. • one $d$ orbital from the higher energy level in an octahedral complex. Use the axes below.

(c(i))[1]

On the diagram of $\text{edds}^{4-}$, circle every atom that forms a bond with the $\text{Fe}^{3+}$ ion in $[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$.

(c(ii))[2]

$[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$ is red and $[\text{Fe}(\text{edta})]^-$ is yellow. Explain why these two complexes have different colours.

(c(iii))[1]

When $\text{edds}^{4-}$(aq) is added to $\text{Fe}^{3+}$(aq), the following reaction occurs: $[\text{Fe}(\text{H}_2\text{O})_6]^{3+}$(aq) $+$ $\text{edds}^{4-}$(aq) $\rightleftharpoons$ $[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$$(\text{aq}) + 6\text{H}_2\text{O}$(l). State the type of reaction that occurs.

(c(iv))[1]

Write an expression for the stability constant, $K_{stab}$, of $[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$$(\text{aq})$.

(c(v))[1]

The table gives the stability constant values, $K_{stab}$, for both complexes. Predict which of the $[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$ and $[\text{Fe}(\text{edta})]^-$ complexes is more stable. Explain your answer with reference to the $K_{stab}$ value for each complex.

(c(vi))[1]

When excess $\text{edta}^{4-}$(aq) is added to $[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$$(\text{aq})$, the following equilibrium is set up: $[\text{Fe}(\text{edds})]^-$$(\text{aq}) + \text{edta}^{4-}$(\text{aq}) $\rightleftharpoons$ $[\text{Fe}(\text{edta})]^-$$(\text{aq}) + \text{edds}^{4-}$(\text{aq})$. Calculate the equilibrium constant, $K_c$, for this equilibrium, using the $K_{stab}$ values given.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: An element that forms one or more stable ions with a partially filled $3d$ subshell

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