Question

What is the single factor that classifies an element as a transition metal? Question 16 options:

Answer 1

A...Just got it right on my exam:)

Answer 2

Answer: Option (A) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

A transition element is defined as the element which has incompletely filled d-orbital.

For example, atomic number of chromium is 24 and its electronic configuration is $[Ar]4s^{1}3d^{5}$.

Also, sometimes the s-orbital is completely filled and sometimes it is half-filled.

Hence, we can conclude that a single factor that classifies an element as a transition metal is that the  highest occupied orbital is a "d" orbital.