Foundation Level (Fail → Pass)

Basic prompts to establish foundational knowledge.

1. What is a transition metal?

2. List two examples of transition metals.

3. State one physical property of transition metals.

4. What colour is the Cu²⁺ ion in solution?

5. Define oxidation state.

6. What is a catalyst?

7. Name one transition metal used as a catalyst.

8. Define a complex ion.

9. Give one example of a ligand.

10. What is meant by “variable oxidation states”?

 Intermediate Level (Pass → Credit)

Prompts requiring explanation, comparisons, and reactions.

1. Explain why transition metals form coloured compounds.

2. Describe how MnO₄⁻ changes colour when reduced.

3. Write the balanced equation for Fe²⁺ reacting with MnO₄⁻ in acidic medium.

4. Explain why transition metals act as good catalysts.

5. Compare the oxidation states of Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺.

6. Describe how ligands bond to metal ions.

7. Explain why Cu²⁺ forms a deep-blue complex with ammonia.

8. State one industrial use of a transition metal catalyst.

9. Compare the magnetic properties of Fe³⁺ and Zn²⁺.

10. Write the electron configuration of a transition metal of your choice.

Advanced Level (Credit → Distinction)

Analytical and conceptual reasoning prompts.

1. Analyse the role of d-orbitals in determining the colour of transition metal ions.

2. Explain crystal field splitting in octahedral complexes.

3. Discuss why Zn, Cd, and Hg are not considered transition metals.

4. Evaluate how ligand field strength affects colour and stability of complexes.

5. Explain how electron pairing affects magnetic properties.

6. Compare high-spin and low-spin complexes with examples.

7. Predict the colour change when NH₃ is added to [Cu(H₂O)₆]²⁺.

8. Analyse why transition metals exhibit catalytic behaviour from a mechanistic perspective.

9. Explain the role of transition metals in biological systems (e.g., hemoglobin).

10. Discuss the significance of variable oxidation states in redox reactions.