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ExamsNEETChemistry

Sc (Z = 21) is a transition element but Zn (Z = 30) is not because:

  1. both Sc and Zn do not exhibit variable oxidation states
  2. both Sc³⁺ and Zn²⁺ ions are colourless and form white compounds
  3. in case of Sc, 3d orbitals are partially filled but in Zn these are completely filled
  4. last electron is assumed to be added to 4s level in case of Zn

Correct answer: in case of Sc, 3d orbitals are partially filled but in Zn these are completely filled

Solution

Scandium (Sc) has a partially filled 3d orbital (3d¹), which qualifies it as a transition element. Zinc (Zn), however, has a completely filled 3d orbital (3d¹⁰), disqualifying it from being a transition element.

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