Multiple Choice
Which statement best explains the trend in atomic radius as you move across a period from left to right on the periodic table?
22
views
10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which direction on the periodic table does atomic radius generally increase?
A
From top to bottom and from left to right
B
From bottom to top and from right to left
C
From bottom to top and from left to right
D
From top to bottom and from right to left
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atomic radius refers to the size of an atom, typically measured from the nucleus to the outer boundary of the electron cloud.
Recognize that as you move down a group (column) in the periodic table, new electron shells are added, increasing the distance between the nucleus and the outermost electrons, which increases atomic radius.
Note that as you move from left to right across a period (row), the number of protons in the nucleus increases, pulling electrons closer due to stronger nuclear charge, which decreases atomic radius.
Combine these trends to conclude that atomic radius generally increases when moving from top to bottom within a group and from right to left across a period.
Therefore, the direction in which atomic radius increases on the periodic table is from top to bottom and from right to left.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations