Question

What is the difference between a transition state and an intermediate?

Short answer

Transition state	Intermediate
In the transition state, partial bonds are formed.	Intermediate has a complete bond.
In a reaction transition state has high energy.	Intermediate has lower energy than the transition state.
There is no specific geometry for a species at its transition state.	Intermediate has its specific geometry.
The transition state is formed in between a step in the fraction.	Intermediate is formed at the end of every step in a multistep reaction.

Step-by-step solution

Energy for transition state and intermediate

In a reaction transition state has high energy. Intermediate has lower energy than the transition state.

Bond formation in transition state and Intermediate

In the transition state, partial bonds are formed. Intermediate has a complete bond.

Geometry for transition state and Intermediate

There is no specific geometry for a species at its transition state. Intermediate has its specific geometry.

Formation of transition state and intermediate

The transition state is formed in between a step in the fraction. Intermediate is formed at the end of every step in a multistep reaction.