Skip to main content
Ch.7 - Periodic Properties of the Elements
Chapter 7, Problem 27a

Identify each statement as true or false: (a) Cations are larger than their corresponding neutral atoms.

Verified Solution

Video duration:
1m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Atomic Size and Ionization

Atomic size refers to the distance from the nucleus to the outermost electron shell. When an atom loses one or more electrons to form a cation, the remaining electrons experience a stronger effective nuclear charge, pulling them closer to the nucleus and resulting in a smaller ionic radius compared to the neutral atom.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:19
Ionization Energy

Cations vs. Neutral Atoms

Cations are positively charged ions formed when an atom loses electrons. This loss of electrons reduces electron-electron repulsion in the electron cloud, allowing the remaining electrons to be drawn closer to the nucleus, which decreases the size of the ion compared to its neutral counterpart.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:36
Atoms vs. Ions

Trends in Ionic Radii

Ionic radii trends indicate that cations are generally smaller than their neutral atoms due to the loss of electrons and increased nuclear attraction. This trend is essential for understanding the behavior of elements in the periodic table and their interactions in chemical reactions.
Recommended video:
Guided course
03:07
Ranking Ionic Radii