# Iron and copper are both transition metals. Explain why iron is described as a transition metal and describe two ways in which the physical properties of iron differ from those of potassium, a Group 1 metal.

> AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405) — 3.2.5 Transition metals (A-Level only) · Explain and Describe · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Transition metals have an incomplete d sub-shell (or d-block element with partially filled d orbitals) — accept: iron has electrons in d orbitals / iron is a d-block element
2. Iron has a higher melting point than potassium
3. Iron is harder / stronger / less malleable in comparison to potassium
4. Iron has a higher density than potassium
5. Iron has a higher electrical conductivity than potassium OR iron is a better conductor of electricity/heat — accept any valid comparison of a physical property not already credited

## Key terms

- [transition metal](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/transition-metal)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain and Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/iron-and-copper-are-both-transition-18648233) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.