- Get link
- X
- Other Apps
Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) as Transition Metals The Platinum Group Metals (PGMs)— Platinum (Pt), Palladium (Pd), Rhodium (Rh), Ruthenium (Ru), Iridium (Ir), and Osmium (Os) —are a subset of the transition metals located in the d-block of the periodic table (specifically in Periods 5 and 6, Groups 8–10). Their classification as transition metals is fundamental to their behavior, particularly their ability to act as catalysts. 1. The Chemistry of Transition Metals Transition metals are defined by their partially filled d-orbitals . This unique electron configuration is the key to why PGMs are so valuable to society: Variable Oxidation States: Because their valence electrons are in the d-orbital subshell, these metals can easily lose or share different numbers of electrons. This allows them to switch between different oxidation states during a chemical reaction. Catalytic Activity: Their ability to readily give and take electrons allows them to facilitate chemical reac...