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Chapter 23: Problem 5

Why do the atomic radii vary so much more for two main-group elements that differ by one unit in atomic number than they do for two transition elements that differ by one unit?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The atomic radii vary more for main-group elements because an increase of one unit in atomic number can begin the filling of a new electron shell, significantly altering the size. For transition elements, a one unit increase adds an electron to an existing shell and the size isn't altered as dramatically.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Atomic Radii

Atomic radii describe the size of an atom. The radius is determined by the electron cloud around the nucleus. The more electrons there are and how they are distributed (electron configuration) can influence the size.
02

The Difference Between Main-Group Elements and Transition Elements

Main-group elements and transition elements differ in their electron configurations. Main-group elements fill their outer s and p orbitals, while transition elements also fill inner d orbitals. As the atomic number increases by one unit, main-group elements start a new electron shell, which has a significant effect on the size of the atom, while transition elements with an increase of one unit in atomic number simply add one electron and one proton which doesn't change the size as significantly.
03

Effect on Atomic Radii

When main-group elements increase by one unit in atomic number, the electron configuration changes more dramatically as a new shell can start being filled, which significantly increases the atomic radii. However, for transition elements, an increase of one unit in atomic number doesn't change the size as much because the added electron goes into an already existing shell and is further drawn in by the additional proton. Thus, atomic radii vary so much more for two main-group elements than they do for two transition elements that differ by one unit in atomic number.

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