Which element is a transition metal?
oxygen, O
uranium, U
neon, Ne
cobalt, Co
Answer (1)
Identify the location of oxygen, uranium, neon, and cobalt in the periodic table.
Recall that transition metals are generally located in the d-block of the periodic table.
Determine that cobalt (Co) is in the d-block and uranium (U) is in the f-block.
Conclude that cobalt is the transition metal among the given options: C o .
Explanation
Identifying the Problem We are given a periodic table and asked to identify which of the elements - oxygen, uranium, neon, or cobalt - is a transition metal. Transition metals are typically found in the d-block of the periodic table.
Locating the Elements Let's locate each element in the periodic table:
Oxygen (O) is in the upper right, in Group 16 (also known as Group 6A).
Uranium (U) is in the f-block (specifically, it's an actinide).
Neon (Ne) is a noble gas, located in Group 18 (also known as Group 8A) on the far right.
Cobalt (Co) is located in the d-block.
Determining Transition Metals Transition metals are defined as elements that have partially filled d orbitals or can form ions with partially filled d orbitals. Cobalt (Co) is in the d-block and is a transition metal. Uranium is an f-block element (inner transition metal). Oxygen and neon are not transition metals.
Final Answer Therefore, the transition metal among the given options is cobalt.
Examples
Transition metals are used in many everyday applications, such as in the construction of buildings, vehicles, and electronics. For example, iron, a transition metal, is a key component of steel, which is used in building construction. Cobalt is used in batteries and in the creation of alloys with high strength and resistance to corrosion. Understanding the properties and applications of transition metals is crucial in various fields of engineering and materials science.
