Explain why transition metal compounds are often coloured in solution.

The valence electrons of transition metals are found in d-orbitals. When the metal ion forms a complex with ligands the d-orbitals split into two different energy levels, and the gap between these levels happens to correspond with that of visible light.

This means that when the electrons in the lower level are promoted to the higher level part of the visible spectrum is absorbed - leading to the reflected light being coloured.

PD
Answered by Patrick D. Chemistry tutor

10656 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the pH of 0.1M Benzoic Acid (C6H5COOH). Ka = 6.3x10-5 M


How does Hydrogen bonding arise in Water?


Explain, in terms of frequencies, why solutions of transition metal ions are often coloured.


What is entropy and how is it used in chemistry?


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