Question

Evaluate these statements about transition metals:

• A. Both statements are right, and second explains the first
• B. Both are accurate, but second does not explain the first
• C. First is false, second is true
• D. First is true, second is incorrect

Hint:

Transition metals must have partially filled d-orbitals in their ground state, which Zn, Cd, and Hg do not have.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Analyze Statement 1.
Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), and Mercury (Hg) are d-block elements but are not true transition metals. This is because, in their normal states, they have fully filled d-orbitals, which disqualifies them from being classified as transition metals. Therefore, Statement 1 is false.
Step 2: Analyze Statement 2.
Statement 2 is correct because these elements (Zn, Cd, Hg) typically exhibit a +2 oxidation state in their normal states. This is consistent with their full d-orbitals in the ground state.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Since Statement 1 is false and Statement 2 is true, the correct answer is option (C).