Which Ion from Na+ and Mg2+ has a smaller atomic radii? Explain why?

The smaller ion of the two would be Mg2+. Both ions have the same electronic arrangement so the amount of shielding occuring for both ions is the same. The key difference between the ions that causes the Mg2+ to have a smaller atomic radii, is that it has more protons within its nucleus, hence a greater nuclear charge than Na+ which means it will attract the valence electrons on the ion to a greater degree, shortening the distance between the nucleus and valence electrons and so making the ion smaller. 

TB
Answered by Tanvi B. Chemistry tutor

20648 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why does ionization energy increase across a period?


Why does a salt not conduct electricity in its solid state?


How does ionic bonding work and what is the structure of an ionic compound?


What does Le Chatelier's principle say happens to an equilibrium when temperature is changed or a catalyst is added?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning