The lanthanoid contraction leads to the second (4d) and third (5d) d series having similar radii and very similar physical and chemical properties, which is unexpected based on the usual family relationship. This phenomenon results in elements like Zr and Hf having comparable atomic radii (e.g., Zr 160 pm, Hf 159 pm) and exhibiting closer similarities than anticipated.
How does the lanthanoid contraction influence the physical and chemical properties of the second (4d) and third (5d) d series of elements?
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