What are the characteristics of the transition (or d-block) elements?

Explanation

(1) The transition elements are d-block elements having electronic configuration `(n-1)d^(1-10), ns^(1or2)`.
(2) They are placed between highly electropositive s-block elements and less electropositive or more electronegative p-block elements, i.e. in the middle position of the periodic table, between the groups 2 and 13.
(3) All transition elements are metals having high melting points and boiling points.
(4) They are good conductors of heat and electricity, exhibit metallic lustre, malleability and ductility.
(5) They show variable oxidation states since (n - 1)d and ns electrons have very less energy difference.
(6) They form coloured compounds and complexes.
(7) Most of them show paramagnetic character due to the presence of unpaired electrons while some exhibit the diamagnetic character.