Multiple choice

Which of the following has the least enthalpy of atomisation?

  1. Vanadium

  2. Cobalt

  3. Copper

  4. Zinc
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

In all transition metals (except Zn, electronic configuration: 3d10 4s2), there are some unpaired electrons that account for their stronger metallic bonding.
Due to the absence of these unpaired electrons, the interatomic electronic bonding is the weakest in Zn and as a result, it has the least enthalpy of atomisation (126 KJ/mol).

Keep practicing — related questions