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

Chemistry of transition elements — practice question

(a)[1]

Define the meaning of transition element.

(b(i))[1]

Write out the electronic configuration of an isolated gaseous $\text{Fe}^{3+}$ ion: $1s^2\,\ldots$

(b(ii))[1]

Name two transition elements whose isolated gaseous atoms contain the same number of electrons in the $3d$ subshell as an isolated gaseous $\text{Fe}^{3+}$ ion.

(c(i))[2]

Cobalt(II) sulfate is mixed with water to give a pink solution containing complex ion $P$. An excess of concentrated hydrochloric acid is then added to this solution to produce a blue solution containing complex ion $Q$. Finish the diagram to show the three-dimensional structure of $Q$. State the charge on this complex ion.

(c(ii))[1]

Name the reaction type in which $P$ is converted into $Q$.

(c(iii))[4]

Explain why solutions containing transition element ions are often coloured.

(c(iv))[2]

Explain why $P$ and $Q$ have different colours.

(d(i))[1]

Cobalt undergoes two reaction types in this reaction. One of them is the same as the one described in c(ii). Name the other reaction type that cobalt undergoes.

(d(ii))[2]

Draw the three-dimensional structures of the two isomeric complexes in the boxes. You may use a simplified diagram to represent one molecule of $\text{H}_2\text{NCH}_2\text{CH}_2\text{NH}_2$.

(d(iii))[1]

Name the type of stereoisomerism shown by these two isomeric complexes.

(d(iv))[1]

State the co-ordination number of cobalt in these two isomeric complexes.

(e(i))[1]

Write an expression for the $K_{\text{stab}}$ of $[\text{Hg(CN)}_4]^{2-}$.

(e(ii))[2]

An aqueous solution of $\text{Hg}^{2+}$ is added to a solution that already contains equal concentrations of $\text{CN}^-(aq)$, $\text{Cl}^-(aq)$ and $\text{I}^-(aq)$. The mixture is then allowed to reach equilibrium. Predict which of $[\text{Hg(CN)}_4]^{2-}$, $[\text{HgCl}_4]^{2-}$ and $[\text{HgI}_4]^{2-}$ will be present in the mixture at the highest concentration and which will be present at the lowest concentration. Explain your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

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