Transition metals rapidly trap small atoms like , and inside their crystal lattices to form interstitial compounds. Which of the following macroscopic physical changes does the parent metal undergo up

Question

Transition metals rapidly trap small atoms like $H, C, N$, and $B$ inside their crystal lattices to form interstitial compounds. Which of the following macroscopic physical changes does the parent metal undergo upon the formation of such compounds?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: D. Interstitial compounds form when small non-metal atoms occupy the interstitial voids in a metal lattice. Because these are not true chemical bonds, the metals retain their metallic conductivity. However, the presence of these trapped atoms physically "locks" the lattice planes, making the resulting compounds exceptionally hard (borides approach diamond) and giving them melting points significantly higher than the pure parent metals. They also remain chemically inert.

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