Multiple Choice
As you move down a group in the periodic table, what happens to the atomic radius of the elements?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius
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Which of the following elements has the smallest atomic radius?
A
Ne (Neon)
B
K (Potassium)
C
Na (Sodium)
D
Li (Lithium)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atomic radius generally decreases across a period (left to right) on the periodic table and increases down a group (top to bottom).
Identify the positions of the given elements on the periodic table: Li, Na, and K are all in Group 1 (alkali metals) but in different periods, while Ne is a noble gas in the same period as Na.
Recognize that moving down Group 1 from Li to K increases atomic radius because additional electron shells are added, making the atom larger.
Recognize that moving from left to right across a period (from Na to Ne) decreases atomic radius due to increasing nuclear charge pulling electrons closer to the nucleus.
Conclude that Ne, being to the right and in the same period as Na, has the smallest atomic radius among the listed elements.
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