Why does the atomic radius decrease

Mathematics

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Answer

The atomic radius generally decreases across a period (from left to right) in the periodic table due to an increase in effective nuclear charge.

Step-by-step solution

3 steps
  1. Across a period, the number of protons in the nucleus increases, leading to a stronger positive charge.

  2. Electrons are added to the same principal energy level, so they don't significantly increase shielding.

  3. The increased nuclear charge pulls the electrons in the outermost shell more tightly towards the nucleus, resulting in a smaller atomic radius.

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