Transition elements are distinguished by the presence of partly filled d or f orbitals in their atoms. This characteristic sets them apart from non-transition elements, allowing for different chemical behaviors.
What distinguishes transition elements from non-transition elements, and which orbitals contribute to this difference?
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Transition elements are distinguished from non-transition elements by the presence of partly filled d orbitals in their atoms. While non-transition elements have completely filled outer s and p orbitals, transition elements exhibit incompletely filled inner (n-1)d orbitals. The incomplete d orbitals contribute to the unique behavior of transition elements, allowing them to form various oxidation states and exhibit a wide range of chemical reactivity. This difference in electronic configuration leads to distinct properties, such as the ability to form colorful compounds and complex ions, setting transition elements apart from non-transition elements in the periodic table.