Give explanation for: 1. Zn, Cd and Hg are of low melting point.

Question

Give explanation for:

1. Zn, Cd and Hg are of low melting point.
2. Transition metals form alloys.
3. Chromium shows maximum melting point.

Answer 1

1. Zn, Cd and Hg do not have any impaired electron as well as their metallic radii is larger, hence metal-metal bonds are weaker and as a result these elements have low melting point.
2. The atomic radii of transition metals as well as the property of filling up of interestial spaces by non-metallic elements (e.g. H,B,C) in the attice sites of transition elements favours them for alloy formation.
3. Chromium and other elements of this group have maximum number of impaired electrons so metal-metal bond is quite stronger, as a result these elements have high melting point.