Which element has the largest radius?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the element on the periodic table that has the largest atomic radius. To answer this, we need to consider the trends in atomic radii within the periodic table, particularly that atomic radius increases down a group and decreases across a period from left to right.
Answer
Francium (Fr)
The final answer is Francium (Fr).
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is Francium (Fr).
More Information
Francium, an alkali metal with atomic number 87, has the largest atomic radius due to its single electron in the highest principal energy level, resulting in less effective nuclear charge and a larger atomic size.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing atomic radius trends within groups and periods; remember that atomic radius increases down a group and decreases across a period.
Sources
- Which element in the periodic table has the largest atomic radius? - Homework Study - homework.study.com
- What element has the largest radius? - Socratic - socratic.org
- Atomic Radius Trend | Periodic Table - ChemTalk - chemistrytalk.org