Multiple Choice
Let x be a hypothetical element. Which of the following would have the largest atomic radius?
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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
F (Fluorine)
B
Li (Lithium)
C
Na (Sodium)
D
O (Oxygen)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atomic radius generally decreases across a period (left to right) in the periodic table due to increasing nuclear charge pulling electrons closer to the nucleus.
Identify the positions of the given elements in the periodic table: Li and Na are in Group 1 (alkali metals), while O and F are in Group 16 and 17 respectively, all in the second or third periods.
Compare elements in the same period first: O and F are in the second period, while Li is in the second period and Na is in the third period.
Recognize that within the same period, atomic radius decreases from left to right, so F (Group 17) will have a smaller radius than O (Group 16) and Li (Group 1).
Note that Na is in the third period, so it has a larger atomic radius than elements in the second period, confirming that F has the smallest atomic radius among the options.
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