Why do transition metals form coloured compounds?

Transition elements have 3d orbitals with the same energy level however when molecules/ligands form dative covalent bonds with a metal ion, the electron repulsion causes the 3d orbitals to split into lower and higher energy levels.The energy required to cause an electron to jump from a lower 3d orbital to higher 3d orbital corresponds to a certain wavelength of visible light. This wavelength is absorbed while the other wavelengths of light pass through which gives the compound its colour. The complement of the colour absorbed is seen.

CC
Answered by Chiamaka C. Chemistry tutor

32112 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

In terms of the structure and boiling point of graphite, explain why the melting point is high


How do i know what the major and minor products of the reaction between Hydrogen Bromide and Propene would be?


Explain the variation of atomic radius along a period and along a group of the Periodic Table


Thermodynamics with a focus on entropy


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