Question

Why do transition metals form coloured compounds?

Hint:

Colour arises from d–d transitions in partially filled d-orbitals.

Answer 1

Transition metal ions have partially filled d-orbitals.

• d-orbitals split in ligand field
• d–d electronic transitions absorb visible light
• Complementary colour observed

\[ \therefore \text{Transition metal compounds are coloured. \]