Using The Complex Ions of a Transition Metal

The Chemistry of Art > 4. The Transition Metals > Using The Complex Ions of a Transition Metal >

Explain, using the complex ions of a transition metal as an example, why species containing transition metals in a high oxidation state will be strong oxidising agent

  • It doesn’t take large amounts of energy for oxidation to occur because the 4s and 3d subshells are of similar energy levels
    • Therefore transition metals are easily reduced or oxidised
  • Transition metal ions with a high oxidation state make strong oxidising agents
    • This is as how strong an oxidising agent is, is dependent on how easily they accept electrons
    • They also possess high E (standard potential) values

Example:

MnO4

  • Poweful oxidation agent in acidic solution
  • Widely used in analytical chemistry
  • The transition metal in this complex has a very high oxidation state and hence a greater attraction for electrons
    • Have lost a large number of electrons
    • Smaller radius

Half Equation

MnO4 (aq) + 8H+ (aq) + 6eàMn2+(aq) + 4H2O (l)