What is the Difference Between Transition Metals and Metals?

06/20/2025 • Matheus Moraes

The main difference between transition metals and other metals lies in their atomic structure and properties. Transition metals are those that belong to the d-block of the periodic table, while other metals belong to the s-block and p-block. Here are some key differences between transition metals and other metals:

  1. Electronegativity: Transition metals are more electronegative than main group metals, making them more likely to form covalent compounds.
  2. Colored Compounds: Transition metals have the ability to form colored compounds due to d-d electronic transitions, while other metals usually do not form colored compounds.
  3. Paramagnetic Compounds: Transition metals can form paramagnetic compounds, which are compounds with unpaired electrons that align with a magnetic field.
  4. Oxidation States: Transition metals can have various oxidation states within compounds, but other metals can have a limited number of oxidation states, often just one.
  5. Reactivity: Transition metals are generally less reactive compared to other metals, such as those in the s-block.
  6. Melting Points and Densities: Transition metals have higher melting points and densities compared to main group metals.
  7. Charge-to-Radius Ratio: Transition metals have a higher charge-to-radius ratio than main group metals, making it easier for them to form covalent bonds.
  8. Catalytic Properties: Transition metals are more often used as catalysts in reactions than main group metals.

Comparative Table: Transition Metals vs Metals

Here is a table comparing the differences between transition metals and main-group metals:

Property Transition Metals Main-Group Metals
Definition Elements in the d-block of the periodic table, located in groups 3 through 12. Elements in the s-block and p-block of the periodic table, located in groups 1, 2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18.
Charges Can form multiple possible charges in ionic compounds, usually 2+ or charges that are the group number minus two. Usually form charges that are the same as their group number.
Chemical Activity Less active than s-block metals. More active than transition metals.
Electronic Structure Partially filled d-subshell, allowing them to form various charges. Full s-subshell and often partially filled p-subshell.
Properties Strong tendency to form complexes, colored compounds, and useful as catalysts. May not exhibit these properties as strongly.

Transition metals, such as iron and copper, are found in the d-block of the periodic table and can form multiple charges due to their partially filled d-subshell. On the other hand, main-group metals, like sodium and magnesium, are found in the s-block and p-block of the periodic table and usually form charges that are the same as their group number. Transition metals are generally less active than main-group metals.

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