Copper is a transition metal that has many uses. Explain why copper is a suitable material for use as a catalyst in industrial chemical reactions, and describe TWO other typical properties of transition metals that make them useful in everyday applications.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Transition metals are widely used in industry and everyday life due to their characteristic properties. Copper is one example of a transition metal with a range of important uses.
Model answer (4 marks)
Copper is a transition metal because it has partially filled d‑orbitals, which allow it to accept and donate electrons during a reaction. This ability to change oxidation state makes copper a good catalyst, as it can provide an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, thereby increasing the rate of industrial processes.
Other useful transition‑metal properties:
1. High melting points – for example, iron and nickel remain solid at very high temperatures, so they are used in high‑temperature furnaces and structural components.
2. Colourful compounds – many transition metals form coloured complexes (e.g. cobalt(II) chloride, chromium(III) oxide), which are employed in pigments, dyes and decorative paints.
Other useful transition‑metal properties:
1. High melting points – for example, iron and nickel remain solid at very high temperatures, so they are used in high‑temperature furnaces and structural components.
2. Colourful compounds – many transition metals form coloured complexes (e.g. cobalt(II) chloride, chromium(III) oxide), which are employed in pigments, dyes and decorative paints.
Examiner tips
- Use the phrase ‘partially filled d‑orbitals’ to show understanding of catalytic activity. Mention ‘lower activation energy’ to link to rate increase. Give two distinct properties (melting point and colour) rather than repeating the same idea. Keep the answer concise and use UK spelling.
Common mistakes
- Confusing copper’s role as a catalyst with it being a catalyst for all reactions – only specific reactions use copper. Listing properties that are not typical of transition metals, such as ‘low density’ or ‘low melting point’. Failing to explain the link between d‑orbitals and catalytic activity.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Transition metals have catalytic activity / act as catalysts (to speed up chemical reactions / increase the rate of reaction)
- Transition metals have high melting points, making them suitable for use in high-temperature applications such as building structures or machinery
- Transition metals have high densities, making them strong and hard-wearing for use in tools, machinery or construction
- Transition metals form coloured compounds, making them useful in paints, dyes or pigments
Key terms in this question
Related
- All Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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