transition element

Chemistry, Natural sciences, Physical sciences Any element in the d block of the periodic table (i.e. groups 3 to 12 inclusive).

Chemistry, Natural sciences, Physical sciences Dated The same, but excluding the group 12 elements (i.e. groups 3 to 11 inclusive).

Chemistry, Natural sciences, Physical sciences Dated Any of the group of metallic elements that have an incomplete inner (d) electron shell, having multiple valencies and forming coloured compounds and stable complex ions.