Iron and copper are examples of transition elements. Iron is above copper in the electrochemical series. (i) Explain the underlined term. (ii) Give two general properties of transition elements. (iii) Which of the two elements, iron or copper, would you expect to corrode more readily? Give a reason for your answer. (iv) Mention two common methods used to protect metals from corrosion.

Leaving Cert Chemistry OPTION : Metals: Iron and copper are examples of

Iron and copper are examples of transition elements - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B (f) - 2013

Question B (f)

Iron and copper are examples of transition elements. Iron is above copper in the electrochemical series. (i) Explain the underlined term. (ii) Give two general ... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Iron and copper are examples of transition elements - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B (f) - 2013

Step 1

Explain the underlined term.

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Answer

The term 'electrochemical series' refers to a list of elements (metals) arranged in order of their standard electrode potentials. It indicates the tendency of these metals to lose electrons, with those higher in the series being more easily oxidized and having a greater tendency to lose electrons.

Step 2

Give two general properties of transition elements.

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Answer

Transition elements exhibit variable valency, meaning they can form ions with different charges due to the involvement of d-orbitals in bonding.
They often form colored ions or compounds, which is due to d-d electron transitions that occur when light is absorbed.

Step 3

Which of the two elements, iron or copper, would you expect to corrode more readily?

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Answer

Iron.

Step 4

Give a reason for your answer.

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Answer

Iron is higher in the electrochemical series and is more easily oxidized compared to copper, making it more prone to corrosion.

Step 5

Mention two common methods used to protect metals from corrosion.

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Answer

Painting: This creates a barrier between the metal surface and the environment, preventing moisture and oxygen from reaching the metal.
Electroplating: This involves coating the metal with a layer of another metal, such as zinc, to provide a protective layer against corrosion.

Iron and copper are examples of transition elements - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B (f) - 2013

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Iron and copper are examples of transition elements - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B (f) - 2013

Explain the underlined term.

Give two general properties of transition elements.

Which of the two elements, iron or copper, would you expect to corrode more readily?

Give a reason for your answer.

Mention two common methods used to protect metals from corrosion.

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