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Q4.35(iv):
Compare the general characteristics of the first series of the transition metals with those of the second and third series metals in the respective vertical columns. Give special emphasis on the following points: (iv) atomic sizes.

Solution :

1. Theoretical Foundation: Periodic Trends in Transition Elements

In transition metal series, atomic radii decrease across a period due to increasing effective nuclear charge ($Z_{eff}$). However, when comparing vertical columns (groups) across the $3d$, $4d$, and $5d$ series, the trend deviates from the expected periodic behavior observed in main group elements. This deviation is primarily dictated by the Lanthanoid Contraction.

2. Comparative Analysis of Atomic Radii

The atomic radii trend in transition metals follows the pattern: $3d < 4d \approx 5d$.

  • $3d$ to $4d$ transition: Moving down from the first transition series ($3d$) to the second transition series ($4d$), there is a significant increase in atomic size. This is attributed to the addition of a new principal quantum shell ($n=4$ vs $n=3$), which increases the distance of valence electrons from the nucleus [Per the Aufbau Principle and shielding effects].
  • $4d$ to $5d$ transition: Contrary to expectations, the atomic radii of the second ($4d$) and third ($5d$) transition series are remarkably similar. Elements like Zirconium ($Zr$, $4d$) and Hafnium ($Hf$, $5d$) exhibit nearly identical atomic radii.

3. Mechanism of Lanthanoid Contraction

The similarity between the $4d$ and $5d$ series is a direct consequence of the Lanthanoid Contraction. Before the $5d$ series begins, the $4f$ orbitals are filled across the 14 Lanthanoid elements ($Z=58$ to $71$).

The $4f$ electrons have poor shielding ability due to their highly diffused shape [Shielding Constant $\sigma$ calculation based on Slater’s Rules]. Consequently, the increased nuclear charge ($+14$ protons in the series) is not effectively countered by the $4f$ electrons, leading to a stronger pull on the valence shell. This contraction compensates for the expected increase in atomic size due to the addition of a new shell ($n=6$ in $5d$ elements).

4. Visual Representation of Atomic Radius Trends

Size Group 3d series 4d series 5d series Size Increase Contraction (4d ≈ 5d)

5. Summary Table of Observed Characteristics

Comparison Point $3d$ vs $4d$ $4d$ vs $5d$
Atomic Radius Significant increase Negligible change
Primary Cause Increase in $n$ (principal quantum shell) Lanthanoid Contraction ($4f$ shielding)

Final Solution: The atomic radii of the $3d$ series elements are significantly smaller than their corresponding $4d$ elements due to the increase in the principal quantum number. However, the atomic radii of the $4d$ and $5d$ series elements are nearly identical; this phenomenon is caused by the Lanthanoid Contraction, where the poor shielding of the $4f$ electrons fails to compensate for the increase in nuclear charge, effectively offsetting the increase in size expected from the added electron shell.


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