Question

Which of the following elements is a transition metal? Select one: a. tin b. tellurium c. copper d. cesium

Answer 1

Copper (Cu) is a transition metal.

Answer 2

Answer: The correct answer is Option c.

Explanation:

Transition metals are defined as the metals in which last electron of the atom enters d-subshell. Elements belonging to Groups 3 to Group 12 are considered as transition metals.

For the given options:

Option a: Tin

The number of electrons of this element are 50.

Electronic configuration of this element = $Sn:[Kr]5s^24d^{10}5p^2$

As, last electron is entering the p-subshell, therefore it is considered as a p-block element.

Option b: Tellurium

The number of electrons of this element are 52.

Electronic configuration of this element = $Te:[Kr]5s^24d^{10}5p^4$

As, last electron is entering the p-subshell, therefore it is considered as a p-block element.

Option c: Copper

The number of electrons of this element are 29.

Electronic configuration of this element = $Cu:[Ar]4s^13d^{10}$

As, last electron is entering the d-subshell, therefore it is considered as a d-block element or transition element.

Option d: Cesium

The number of electrons of this element are 55.

Electronic configuration of this element = $Cs:[Xe]6s^1$

As, last electron is entering the s-subshell, therefore it is considered as a s-block element.

Hence, the correct answer is Option c.