Transition metals have many real-world applications because of their unique properties such as variable oxidation states, ability to form colored compounds, high strength, and catalytic activity. Here are some common uses:
- Catalysts:
- Iron in the Haber process to make ammonia.
- Platinum and palladium in catalytic converters to reduce car exhaust pollution.
- Nickel in hydrogenation reactions in the chemical industry.
- Construction and manufacturing:
- Steel (iron + carbon) for buildings, bridges, and machinery.
- Titanium for aircraft, spacecraft, and medical implants because it is strong and corrosion-resistant.
- Electronics and batteries:
- Copper in electrical wiring and electronics.
- Lithium-cobalt oxide (transition metal in lithium batteries) for rechargeable batteries.
- Jewelry and coins:
- Gold, silver, and platinum for jewelry and coinage due to corrosion resistance and luster.
- Pigments and dyes:
- Chromium, manganese, and cobalt compounds are used in paints, ceramics, and glass to give bright colors.
- Medicine:
- Cisplatin (platinum compound) used in chemotherapy for cancer treatment.
- Iron compounds for treating anemia.
- Magnets:
- Neodymium and iron-boron alloys for strong permanent magnets in headphones, hard drives, and electric motors.
In short: Transition metals are widely used in industry, medicine, electronics, construction, and everyday products due to their strength, reactivity, and versatile chemical properties.