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The d- and f-Block Elements cheat sheet

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JEE · Chemistry

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Class 12 · Chapter 4The d- and f-Block Elements

Transition metals: variable oxidation states, coloured ions, catalysts, complexes.

1. Properties of d-Block

  • Configuration (n−1)d¹⁻¹⁰ ns¹⁻².
  • Variable oxidation states (Mn shows +2 to +7).
  • Coloured ions due to d–d transitions; paramagnetic from unpaired electrons.
  • Catalysts (Fe in Haber, V₂O₅ in Contact).
  • Form interstitial compounds and alloys.
μ=n(n+2)\mu = \sqrt{n(n + 2)} BM

2. Important Compounds

K₂Cr₂O₇

orange; oxidising agent in acid; chromate ⇌ dichromate with pH.

KMnO₄

purple; strong oxidant; Mn⁷⁺ → Mn²⁺ (acid), MnO₂ (neutral).

3. Lanthanoids

  • 4f series; common +3 state.
  • Lanthanoid contraction: steady decrease in size; makes Zr and Hf similar.

4. Actinoids

  • 5f series; radioactive.
  • Show more oxidation states than lanthanoids.
  • Actinoid contraction is greater.

5. Key Points

  • Zn, Cd, Hg are not typical transition elements.
  • Cu⁺ is colourless (d¹⁰).
  • High melting points due to metallic bonding.
  • Mischmetall: lanthanoid alloy.

Remember: d-block properties | K₂Cr₂O₇ & KMnO₄ | lanthanoid contraction

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