Noble transition metals are unaffected by single acids due to their low reactivity. In contrast, most first-series metals, excluding copper, are more reactive and undergo oxidation by 1M H⁺, albeit sometimes at a slow rate.
Why are some transition metals considered ‘noble,’ and what distinguishes them from other transition metals in terms of their reactivity with mineral acids?
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Some transition metals are considered ‘noble’ because they are unaffected by single mineral acids. This nobility arises from their low reactivity, which prevents them from readily dissolving in mineral acids. Unlike most transition metals, which can dissolve in mineral acids due to their electropositivity, noble transition metals exhibit stability and resist the corrosive effects of acids. Their unreactive nature is often attributed to the establishment of a passivating oxide layer on their surface, protecting them from further corrosion. This distinct reactivity profile sets noble transition metals apart, making them resistant to the typical reactions observed with mineral acids.