What is the Difference Between Representative and Transition Elements?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between representative and transition elements lies in the electron orbitals that are being filled as the elements are placed in the periodic table.
Representative elements, also known as main group elements, include:
- Alkali metals (Group 1)
- Alkaline earth metals (Group 2)
- Halogens (Group 17)
- Noble gases (Group 18)
These elements have their outermost orbitals filled with s and p electrons. Representative elements typically form ionic compounds and exhibit more non-metallic behavior.
On the other hand, transition elements are found in:
- Group 3
- Groups 4 to 11
These elements have partially filled d orbitals in addition to the filled s and p orbitals. Transition elements often exhibit:
- Variable oxidation states
- Catalytic activity
- Complex ion formation
- Greater metallic behavior compared to representative elements
In summary, the primary difference between representative and transition elements is the orbital arrangement of electrons and the resulting chemical properties. Representative elements have simpler electron configurations and exhibit more non-metallic behavior, while transition elements have more complex configurations and exhibit greater metallic behavior.
Comparative Table: Representative vs Transition Elements
Here is a table comparing the differences between representative and transition elements:
| Property | Representative Elements | Transition Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Position in the Periodic Table | Groups 1, 2, and 13-18, in the s-block (Group 1 and Group 2) and the p-block (Groups 13 to 18) | Located in the d-block of the periodic table (Groups 3-11) |
| Valence Electrons | Have valence electrons in s and p orbitals | Have partially filled d orbitals in their valence shells |
| Complex Compounds | Typically do not form complex compounds, with some exceptions | Often form complex compounds and ions due to their ability to exhibit multiple oxidation states |
| Oxidation States | Display a single oxidation state | Can exhibit variable oxidation states |
| Metallic Characteristics | Generally less metallic than transition elements | More metallic than representative elements, with a greater tendency to form positive ions |
Representative elements, also known as main group elements, include the elements in the s-block (Groups 1 and 2) and the p-block (Groups 13-18) of the periodic table. They typically have completely filled s and p orbitals in their outermost shells. On the other hand, transition elements are located in the d-block of the periodic table and have partially filled d orbitals in their valence shells. They often form complex ions and compounds due to their ability to exhibit multiple oxidation states.
- D Block Elements vs Transition Elements
- Transition Metals vs Metals
- Transition Metals vs Metalloids
- Transition Metals vs Inner Transition Metals
- Transuranic Elements vs Radioisotopes
- Group 1 Metals vs Transition Metals
- Isotopes vs Elements
- Atoms vs Elements
- Heavy Metals vs Trace Elements
- Atomic vs Molecular Elements
- Trace vs Tracer Elements
- Mineral vs Element
- Elements vs Compounds
- Element vs Compound
- Senator vs Representative
- Transition vs Transversion
- Group 1 vs Group 2 Elements
- Element vs Molecule
- Actinides vs Lanthanides