Characteristic properties of transition elements

Transition elements are metals that typically have high densities and high melting points. A high density means that a given volume contains a relatively large mass. A high melting point means that the metal must reach a high temperature to melt.

Transition elements also form coloured compounds. The colour is a property of the compound; it does not mean that the pure metal has the same colour. Not every compound of a transition element is coloured.

Many transition elements can act as catalysts, either as elements or as part of compounds. A catalyst increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being used up overall. It can take part in the reaction, but is regenerated by the end. Catalytic activity is not a property of every transition element in every form.