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

Chemistry of transition elements — practice question

Vanadium belongs to the transition elements in Period 4 of the Periodic Table.
(a)[1]

Define the term transition element.

(b(i))[1]

State any two further typical chemical properties of transition elements.

(b(ii))[1]

Explain why transition elements show variable oxidation states.

(c(i))[2]

In acidic solution, $\text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-}$ reduces $\text{VO}_2^+$ to $\text{V}^{2+}$. equation 2 is: $2\text{VO}_2^+ + 3\text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-} + 8\text{H}^+ \rightarrow 2\text{V}^{2+} + 6\text{CO}_2 + 4\text{H}_2\text{O}$ In the titration, $25.00\text{ cm}^3$ of $0.0300\text{ mol dm}^{-3}$ $\text{VO}_2^+(aq)$ is measured into $10\text{ cm}^3$ of dilute sulfuric acid. A $0.0400\text{ mol dm}^{-3}$ $\text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-}(aq)$ solution is then run from a burette until the end-point is reached. The titration is repeated and concordant values are obtained, as listed in Table 3.1. Show that the results fit the stoichiometry of equation 2.

(c(ii))[2]

An excess of $\text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-}$ reacts with $\text{VO}_2^+$ to produce a mixture of two octahedral complex ions. These complex ions are stereoisomers of one another. Each complex ion has a $\text{V}^{2+}$ cation and three $\text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-}$ ions. Complete the diagram so that it shows the three-dimensional structure of one of the complex ions. State the charge of the complex ion. Use the symbol provided to stand for a $\text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-}$ ion.

(d(i))[1]

Identify the vanadium species that is produced when an excess of $\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$(aq) reacts with $\text{V}^{2+}$(aq) under standard conditions. Explain your answer using the data in Table 3.2.

(d(ii))[1]

Concentrated acidified $\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$ may react with $\text{V}^{2+}$ to form red $\text{VO}_2^{3+}$ ions. $\text{VO}_2^{3+}$ contains vanadium combined with the peroxide anion, $\text{O}_2^{2-}$. Deduce the oxidation state of vanadium in $\text{VO}_2^{3+}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A $d$-block element that forms one or more stable ions with an incomplete $d$ subshell

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI