(a) (i) Account for the following : (1) Zn$^{2+}$ salts are colourless while Ni$^{2+}$ salts are coloured. (2) Cr$^{2+}$ is a strong reducing agent. (3) Transition metals and their compounds show catalytic activities. (ii) Write the ionic equations for the oxidizing action of MnO$_{4}^{-}$ in acidic medium with (1) I$^{-}$ ion, and (2) Fe$^{2+}$ ion.

Year	Paper Code	Set	Position
CBSE 2023	Series Other	Set 1	Question 34
CBSE 2023	Series Other	Set 1	Question 35
CBSE 2023	Series Other	Set 1	Question 33

• Step 1: Stating the fundamental formula / law statement (+1 Mark)
• Step 2: Intermediate mathematical substitution or proof steps (+1 Mark)
• Step 3: Correct final value or conclusion with mandatory SI units (+1 Mark)