Why does atomic size decrease from left to right?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the trend in atomic size across the periodic table, specifically why the atomic size decreases as you move from left to right across a period. This relates to concepts of atomic structure, effective nuclear charge, and electron shielding.
Answer
due to increasing nuclear charge with the same valence shell
The final answer is due to increasing nuclear charge with the same valence shell
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is due to increasing nuclear charge with the same valence shell
More Information
As you move from left to right in a period, the atomic number increases, leading to a higher nuclear charge. Since electrons are added to the same energy level, the increased positive charge pulls electrons closer to the nucleus, decreasing atomic size.
Tips
A common mistake is to think the atomic radius increases because the number of subatomic particles increases; however, the key factor is the nuclear charge and unchanged energy level.
Sources
- Why Atomic size decreases as we go from left to right in Modern ... - byjus.com
- Periodic Trends in Atomic Size - Chemistry - Socratic - socratic.org
- Atomic size from left to right in a period - byjus.com
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