What is the difference between a metal and a transition metal?

Metals are the largest category of elements and they are characterized by their appearance: usually they possess a silvery shine, they are solid (except for mercury), they are malleable and they conduct electricity and heat.

Transition metals are the elements that belong to the middle of the periodic table. Lead, for instance, is a metal but it is not a transition metal.

RS
Answered by Riccardo S. Chemistry tutor

23702 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What happens at the anode during electrolysis?


Explain why C-12 and C-14 are isotopes of Carbon. (3 marks)


What is the difference between an endothermic and exothermic reaction?


Magnesium oxide contains magnesium ions (Mg2+) and oxide ions (O2–). Describe what happens when magnesium atoms react with oxygen atoms to produce magnesium oxide.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning