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

Chemistry of transition elements — practice question

Titanium is a transition element in Period 4. In minerals, it is most often encountered as $\text{TiO}_2$.
(a(i))[1]

Give the meaning of transition element.

(a(ii))[1]

Identify two characteristic properties of transition elements.

(b(i))[2]

The $\text{TiO}^{2+}$ ion is produced when $\text{TiO}_2$ reacts with excess sulfuric acid. In acidic conditions, zinc metal can reduce $\text{TiO}^{2+}$ to give a purple solution containing $\text{Ti}^{3+}(aq)$. $\text{TiO}^{2+}(aq)$ is a colourless ion. Suggest why.

(b(ii))[1]

State the electronic configuration of an isolated $\text{Ti}^{3+}$ ion.

(b(iii))[1]

Write an ionic equation for the reduction of $\text{TiO}^{2+}$ by zinc metal in acidic conditions.

(c(i))[3]

Acidified $\text{Ti}^{3+}(aq)$ reacts with oxygen dissolved in water as shown. $4\text{Ti}^{3+} + \text{O}_2 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow 4\text{TiO}^{2+} + 4\text{H}^+$, $\Delta G^{\circ} = -436.1\,\text{kJ mol}^{-1}$ The standard reduction potential, $E^{\circ}$, of $\text{O}_2 + 4\text{H}^+ + 4e^- \rightleftharpoons 2\text{H}_2\text{O}$ is $+1.23\,\text{V}$. Calculate the standard reduction potential, $E^{\circ}$, in V, of the $\text{TiO}^{2+}(aq)/\text{Ti}^{3+}(aq)$ half-cell. Show your working.

(c(ii))[1]

When aqueous citrate ions, $\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{O}_7^{3-}$, are added to $\text{Ti}^{3+}(aq)$, the $[\text{Ti}(\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{O}_7)_2]^{3-}(aq)$ complex forms. Explain, in terms of d-orbitals, why $\text{Ti}^{3+}$ can form complex ions.

(c(iii))[1]

Acidified $[\text{Ti}(\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{O}_7)_2]^{3-}(aq)$ does not react with oxygen dissolved in water, unlike acidified $\text{Ti}^{3+}(aq)$. Suggest what this tells you about the value of the standard reduction potential, $E^{\circ}$, of the following half-cell. $[\text{Ti}(\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{O}_7)_2]^{2-}(aq) + e^- \rightleftharpoons [\text{Ti}(\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{O}_7)_2]^{3-}(aq)$ Explain your answer.

(d(i))[1]

Some reactions of $\text{TiO}_2$ are shown in Fig. 3.1. The titanium ions in $\text{TiF}_6^{2-}$ and $\text{Ti(acac)}_2\text{Cl}_2$ have a coordination number of 6. State what is meant by coordination number.

(d(ii))[1]

Write an equation for the formation of $\text{TiF}_6^{2-}$ from $\text{TiO}_2$.

(d(iii))[2]

State the meaning of bidentate ligand.

(d(iv))[2]

$\text{Ti(acac)}_2\text{Cl}_2$ displays both optical and geometrical (cis/trans) isomerism. $\text{Ti(acac)}_2\text{Cl}_2$ has three stereoisomers. The structure of one stereoisomer of $\text{Ti(acac)}_2\text{Cl}_2$ is shown in Fig. 3.2. Complete the structures of the other two stereoisomers of $\text{Ti(acac)}_2\text{Cl}_2$.

(d(v))[2]

The $\text{acac}^-$ anion is symmetrical. Deduce which, if any, of stereoisomers 1, 2 and 3 in (d)(iv) are polar. Explain your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 19-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A d-block element that forms ions with an incomplete $d$ subshell

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