Transition elements
Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry (0620) · Unit 8: The Periodic Table · 10 flashcards
Transition elements is topic 8.5 in the Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry (0620) syllabus , positioned in Unit 8 — The Periodic Table , alongside Arrangement of elements, Group I - Alkali metals and Group VII - Halogens. In one line: Transition elements are typically hard, strong, and have high densities and high melting points.
This topic is examined in Paper 1 (multiple-choice) and Papers 3/4 (theory), plus Paper 5 or Paper 6 (practical / alternative to practical). Past papers from 2022 to 2025 show this topic across undefined questions worth 122 marks (around 1.9% of all Chemistry marks in those years).
The deck below contains 10 flashcards — 2 definitions, 5 key concepts and 3 identification cards — covering the precise wording mark schemes reward. Use the 2 definition cards to lock down command-word answers (define, state), then move on to the concept and application cards to handle explain, describe and compare questions.
The general physical properties of transition elements
Transition elements are typically hard, strong, and have high densities and high melting points.
What the Cambridge 0620 syllabus says
Official 2026-2028 specThese are the exact learning objectives Cambridge sets for this topic. Match the command word (Describe, Explain, State, etc.) in your answer to score full marks.
- Describe Describe the Group VIII noble gases as unreactive, monatomic gases and explain this in terms of electronic configuration
What are the general physical properties of transition elements?
Transition elements are typically hard, strong, and have high densities and high melting points.
What is a key chemical property that is common for transition metals and their compounds?
They act as catalysts. Vanadium(V) oxide (V₂O₅) is used as a catalyst in the Haber process.
What is the key characteristic about how transition metals form ions?
They can form ions with different oxidation states.
What is a common property associated with compounds of transition metals (e.g., salts)?
Their compounds are often colored. Copper(II) sulfate (CuSO₄) is blue.
Give an example of a transition metal used as a catalyst in the Haber process.
Iron is used as a catalyst in the Haber process for the production of ammonia.
Describe the meaning of the term 'catalyst'.
A catalyst speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up itself.
How do the melting points of transition metals typically compare to those of Group 1 metals?
Transition metals generally have much higher melting points than Group 1 metals. Iron's melting point is over 1500°C whereas Sodium's is below 100°C
Give an example of a transition metal used in jewellery and why.
Gold is used in jewellery due to its inertness (resistance to corrosion) and attractive appearance.
Why are transition metals useful in constructing bridges and buildings?
Transition metals, like steel (an alloy of iron), are strong and have high tensile strength making them suitable for structural applications.
What type of ions cause color in aqueous solutions?
Transition metal ions typically form colored aqueous solutions.
Key Questions: Transition elements
What are the general physical properties of transition elements?
Transition elements are typically hard, strong, and have high densities and high melting points.
Describe the meaning of the term 'catalyst'.
A catalyst speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up itself.
Tips to avoid common mistakes in Transition elements
- ● When a question asks for an element, a compound, or an ion, double-check you've given that specific type of substance.
- ● Memorise the common physical properties (state, colour) of the elements in the Periodic Table.
- ● For composition comparisons, name specific elements, not just general trends.
More topics in Unit 8 — The Periodic Table
Transition elements sits alongside these Chemistry decks in the same syllabus unit. Each uses the same spaced-repetition system, so progress in one informs the next.
Cambridge syllabus keywords to use in your answers
These are the official Cambridge 0620 terms tagged to this section. Mark schemes credit responses that use the exact term — weave them into your answers verbatim rather than paraphrasing.
Key terms covered in this Transition elements deck
Every term below is defined in the flashcards above. Use the list as a quick recall test before your exam — if you can't define one of these in your own words, flip back to that card.
Related Chemistry guides
Long-read articles that go beyond the deck — cover the whole subject's common mistakes, high-yield content and revision pacing.
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