In transition elements, the oxidation state can vary from +1 to the highest oxidation state by removing all its valence electrons. Also, in transition elements, the oxidation states differ by 1 (Fe2+ and Fe3+ ; Cu+ and Cu2+ ). In non-transition elements, the oxidation states differ by 2, for example, +2 and +4 or +3 and +5, etc
Multiple oxidation states- The oxidation states of d block elements show very few energy gaps; therefore, they exhibit many oxidation states. Also, the energy difference between s and d orbital is very less. Therefore both the electrons are involved in ionic and covalent bond formation, which ultimately leads to multiple oxidation states.
Formation of complex compounds- Ligands show a binding behavior and can form so many stable complexes with the help of transition metals. This property is mainly due to:
Availability of vacant d orbitals.
Comparatively small sizes of metals.
Hardness- Transition elements are tough and have high densities because of the presence of unpaired electrons.
Melting and boiling points- Melting and boiling points of transition are very high because of the presence of unpaired electrons and partially filled d orbitals. They form strong bonds and have high melting and boiling points.
Atomic radii- The atomic and ionic radius of the transition elements decreases as we move from Group 3 to group 6. However, it remains the same between group 7 and group 10, and from group 11 to group 12 increases.
Ionization enthalpy- The ionization enthalpies of the transition elements are generally on the greater side as compared to the S block elements
