How do you determine if an ion is larger?
For example, which ion is larger in each pair?
#Ca^(2+)# , #Mg^(2+)#
#Cl^-# , #P^(3-)#
#Cu^+# , #Cu^(2+)#
For example, which ion is larger in each pair?
1 Answer
Explanation:
When a cation forms, it must necessarily lose an electron. The electron is removed from the valence shell, and is no longer available to shield the nuclear charge. The cationic radius should thus contract with respect to the atomic radius.
On the other hand, when an anion forms, a given atom is reduced, and accepts electrons into its valence shell. The valence should expand, and thus anions should have a larger radius than their parent atoms.
For the alkaline earth cations,
For non-metal ions,
For
To end, you are a chemist, a physical scientist. We have considered some of the possible effects of ionic charge. It is up to you to consult the data, and find some actual measurements of ionic radii to see that we haven't got it