Question:easy

Which of the following is not a transition metal?

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The elements of Group 12 (Zinc, Cadmium, and Mercury) are d-block elements but are NOT classified as transition metals.
Updated On: Jul 22, 2026
  • Hg
  • Cu
  • Ag
  • Pt
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: State the IUPAC criterion for transition metals.
A transition metal is an element whose atom has an incompletely filled d-subshell, or that can give rise to at least one stable ion with an incompletely filled d-subshell.
Step 2: Check Cu, Ag, and Pt.
Cu ground state is [Ar]$3d^{10}4s^1$; however, Cu$^{2+}$ is [Ar]$3d^9$ (incomplete d). Ag$^+$ has $4d^{10}$ but Ag$^{2+}$ is $4d^9$ (incomplete). Pt forms Pt$^{2+}$ and Pt$^{4+}$ with incomplete 5d configurations.
Step 3: Check Hg.
Ground state of Hg is [Xe]$4f^{14}5d^{10}6s^2$. Its most common and stable ion is Hg$^{2+}$: [Xe]$4f^{14}5d^{10}$, which retains a completely filled $5d^{10}$ subshell. No stable Hg ion has an incomplete d-subshell.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Because all stable Hg ions have a filled $d^{10}$ configuration, Hg fails the IUPAC criterion and is not a true transition metal.
\[ \boxed{\text{Hg}} \]
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