Which of the following elements have a melting point significantly higher than that of Iron () withi — d and f Block Elements Chemistry Question
Question
Which of the following elements have a melting point significantly higher than that of Iron ($Fe$) within their respective transition series?
💡 Solution & Explanation
The melting point of transition metals roughly correlates with the number of unpaired $d$ -electrons available for bonding. Chromium ($Cr$) has $6$ unpaired electrons ($3d^5 4s^1$) and has the maximum melting point in the $3d$ series, higher than $Fe$. Tungsten ($W$) in the $5d$ series has exceptionally strong metallic bonding and the highest melting point of all metals. $Mn$ has a localized stable $d^5$ state causing a dip in its melting point (lower than $Fe$). $Zn$ ($d^{10}$) has the lowest.