- #1
rdgt3000
- 8
- 0
which atom has a larger atomic radius: K+ or Ar ?
The atomic radius is a measure of the size of an atom, typically defined as the distance from the center of the nucleus to the outermost electron orbit.
The atomic radius of K+ is smaller than that of Ar. This is because K+ has lost an electron and has a higher nuclear charge, resulting in a stronger attraction to the remaining electrons and a smaller size.
As mentioned, the loss of an electron in K+ leads to a higher nuclear charge and stronger attraction to the remaining electrons, causing the atom to shrink in size.
As you move across a period in the periodic table, the atomic radius generally decreases. This is because the number of protons and electrons increases, leading to a stronger attraction between the nucleus and the electrons, causing the atom to become smaller.
As you move down a group in the periodic table, the atomic radius generally increases. This is because the number of electron shells increases, leading to a greater distance between the nucleus and the outermost electrons, resulting in a larger atom.