ATI TEAS 7 Science Related

Review ATI TEAS 7 Science related questions and content

Iron is a transition metal, which means it often forms a cation with a charge of what?

  • A. 2- or 3-
  • B. 1-
  • C. 2+ or 3+
  • D. 1+
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 2+ or 3+. Transition metals, like iron, are known for their ability to exhibit variable oxidation states. This characteristic allows them to form cations with charges such as 2+ or 3+. Specifically, iron can form cations with these charges due to the varying electron configurations in its d-orbitals. The other choices are incorrect because transition metals typically form positively charged cations, not negatively charged ones. Additionally, while iron can form cations with charges of 2+ or 3+, it does not commonly form cations with charges of 1- or 1+. Transition metal cations play a crucial role in forming coordination complexes with ligands, highlighting their importance in various chemical reactions.