How does the core charge on the neutral atom change as we move from left to right across a row (period) of the periodic table?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The core charge on the neutral atom generally increases as we move from left to right across a row (period) of the periodic table. This is due to an increase in the atomic number with no significant change in the shielding effect.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Concept of Core Charge

Core charge is the effective nuclear charge felt by the outermost (valence) electrons of an atom. It can be computed by subtracting the shielding effect from the atomic number. That is, Core charge = Atomic number – Shielding effect.
02

Understand the Structure of the Periodic Table

The periodic table is arranged in a way that elements with similar chemical properties line up in columns, also known as groups. The horizontal rows are called periods. As you move along a period from left to right, the atomic number (number of protons + number of veiling electrons) increases, but shielding effect usually stays the same.
03

Determine the Relationship between Core Charge and Position in the Periodic Table

As one moves from left to right across a period, the atomic number increases, adding protons to the nucleus and electrons to the same energy level, which does not significantly increase shielding effect. Therefore, the core charge generally increases as one moves from left to right across a period in the periodic table.

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