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

20914 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Deduce the main organic product for the reaction of benzene with nitric acid in the prescence of sulfuric acid, and provide a complete mechanism for this reaction. (5 marks)


How do you determine the shape and bond angle of an ammonia molecule?


What is enthalpy?


Write a balanced equation for the reaction between NaOH and sulfuric acid. A conical flask contains 25cm^3 of 0.124M NaOH, a burette contains 0.0625M sulfuric acid. Find the minimum amount of acid required to completely react with the NaOH in the flask.


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