Which of the following is the most suitable description of transition elements?

Options

A. Low melting points
B. No catalytic activity.
C. Show varible oxidation states.
D. Exhibit inert pair effect.

Answer

C

Explanation

(A)Have higher enthalpy of atomization because of the involvement of greater number of valence electrons in the bonding.So their melting points are higher.
(B)They show catalytic activity due to their variable oxidation states.
(C )Energy of ns and (n-1)d orbitals are nearly same and thus electrons of ns and (n-1) d orbitals can take part in bonding.
(D)Only heavier p-block elements show inert pair effect , not d-block elements.