Question

Why do transition metals and their compounds show catalytic activities?

Hint:

- Cu$^+$ undergoes disproportionation, making CuCl$_2$ more stable in aqueous solution. - Fe$^{3+}$ is coloured due to d-d transitions, whereas Sc$^{3+}$ and Zn$^{2+}$ are colourless. - Potassium dichromate is obtained from sodium chromate via acidification and reaction with KCl. - Transition metals act as catalysts due to variable oxidation states and large surface area.

Answer 1

Transition metals and their compounds show catalytic activity because: 
- They can exhibit variable oxidation states, allowing them to form intermediate complexes during reactions.
- They can adsorb reactants onto their surface, increasing reaction rates. 
- Their large surface area provides active sites for catalytic activity.