Why is the Mg2+ ion smaller in radius than the Na+ ion?

To answer this we need to compare the two ions. The main difference between the two ions is the number of protons in the nucleus - Magnesium has one more proton than Sodium, however, if you look at the electron configurations of the two, they will be the same, so called isoelectronic (i.e. 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6). The higher positive charge on the nucleus in magnesium causes a stronger attraction on the negatively charged electrons ($$F \propto q_1 q_2$$), and so the ion has a smaller ionic radius.

JH
Answered by Jonathan H. Chemistry tutor

16314 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the empirical formula of a compound containing 77.7% Iron and 22.3% of oxygen.


Calculate the PH of 32 mmol of HCl in 75cm^3 solution. Assume HCl fully dissociates.


Which molecule has the highest boiling point: methane, ammonia, water or hydrogen fluoride? Explain why.


What is meant by the term amphoteric? and give an example of a reaction using NaOH that could be used to distinguish between a solution of amphoteric AlCl3 and non-amphoteric MgCl2.


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