The catalytic activity of transition metals and their compounds is ascribed mainly to :[2012 M]a)their magnetic behaviourb)their unfilled d-orbitalsc)their ability to adopt variable oxidation stated)their chemical reactivityCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

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Transition Metals and Their Catalytic Activity

Transition metals and their compounds exhibit catalytic activity primarily due to their ability to adopt variable oxidation states.

Variable Oxidation States
Transition metals have the unique ability to undergo oxidation-reduction reactions by changing their oxidation states. This property allows them to participate in catalytic reactions where they can easily switch between different oxidation states, aiding in the conversion of reactants to products.

Complex Formation
Transition metals can form complex compounds with ligands, which further enhances their catalytic activity. These complexes can stabilize high-energy intermediates during a catalytic reaction, lowering the activation energy and increasing the reaction rate.

Unfilled d-Orbitals
The presence of unfilled d-orbitals in transition metals allows them to interact with other molecules and participate in electron transfer processes during catalytic reactions. This ability to transfer electrons makes them effective catalysts for various chemical transformations.

Chemical Reactivity
Transition metals exhibit high chemical reactivity, allowing them to form transient intermediates and facilitate complex reaction mechanisms. This reactivity plays a crucial role in their catalytic activity by providing multiple pathways for the conversion of reactants into products.

In conclusion, the catalytic activity of transition metals and their compounds is primarily attributed to their ability to adopt variable oxidation states, form complex compounds, interact through unfilled d-orbitals, and exhibit high chemical reactivity.

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