Atomic+Radius


 * Trends In Atomic Radii:**

There are many different trends in the sizes of atomic radii. The first of such trends is that when moving from left to right across the periodic table, the radii get smaller. This is illustrated in the picture below. As you move from left to right across the branch, the apple is holding on tighter to the tree. (This illustrates the greater number of protons holding on to the valence electrons tighter, making the radius smaller.)

The second trend we see in atomic radii is that as you move down the periodic table, the radii get bigger. This trend is explained by the process known as “shielding.” There are more layers between the nucleus and the valence electrons, causing the force of attraction to weaken. Therefore, the atomic radius is bigger.



Mr. Williams Brown, LeMay, and Bursten: //Chemistry: The Central Science//.
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