Question

Why do transition metals form large numbers of complex compounds?

Hint:

Key factors: high charge density, small size, and availability of vacant d-orbitals enhance complex formation.

Answer 1

Step 1: Transition metals have small atomic/ionic radii and high nuclear charge.
Step 2: Their partially filled (n-1)d orbitals are available to accept lone pairs from ligands.
Step 3: Hence, they readily form coordinate bonds with ligands, resulting in stable complex compounds.