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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Transition Metals and Metalloids?

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Transition metals and metalloids are two distinct groups of elements in the periodic table. The main differences between them are:

  1. Electronic Structure: Transition metals are chemical elements having atoms with unpaired d electrons, whereas metalloids have atoms with more localized electrons.
  2. Conductivity: Transition metals are good conductors of heat and electricity, while metalloids have intermediate conductivity, often acting as semiconductors.
  3. Hardness and Brittleness: Transition metals are typically hard and malleable, whereas metalloids are more brittle and have intermediate mechanical properties.
  4. Chemical Properties: Transition metals are known for their ability to form multiple oxidation states and coordinate compounds, while the chemical properties of metalloids can be more variable, sometimes resembling those of nonmetals.

Examples of transition metals include copper, zinc, and iron, while examples of metalloids include boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony, tellurium, and polonium.

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  • What is the Difference Between Transition Metals and Metalloids?
  • Comparative Table: Transition Metals vs Metalloids

    • Comparative Table: Transition Metals vs Metalloids

    Here is a table comparing the differences between transition metals and metalloids:

    Property Transition Metals Metalloids
    Definition Transition metals are chemical elements with atoms having unpaired d electrons. Metalloids are elements with properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals.
    Electronic Configuration At least one unpaired d electron in their stable cations. No specific electronic configuration criteria; may have unpaired or paired electrons.
    Oxidation States Can have multiple oxidation states due to d-d electronic transitions, resulting in various colors. May have varying oxidation states, but not as diverse as transition metals.
    Conductivity Generally good conductors of heat and electricity. Can conduct electricity under certain circumstances, but not as effectively as transition metals.
    Physical State Mostly solids at room temperature, with a characteristic silvery shine (except for mercury). Can be solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature, depending on the element.
    Luster Usually have a silvery shine. Can be lustrous or non-lustrous, depending on the element.
    Ionization Energy Generally lower ionization energies compared to nonmetals. Intermediate ionization energies between metals and nonmetals.
    Electronegativity Not a specific range, as it varies depending on the element. Electronegativity values close to 2.0.

    In summary, transition metals are characterized by their unpaired d electrons, multiple oxidation states, and good conductivity, while metalloids have intermediate properties between metals and nonmetals, with variable oxidation states and conductivity.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.