Describe and explain the trend in atomic radii across the periodic table

Atomic radii decreases in size, moving from left to right in the periodic table.
This is because atoms on the right hand side of a period have a larger number of protons. So, there is a greater positive charge for atoms on the right hand side, like Neon with which to attract negative electrons. This causes the electrons to be pulled in with more force towards the nucleus, decreasing the radius.

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Which of Na+ and Mg2+ is the smaller ion. Explain your answer. (2 marks)


Suggest why Phenol is more reactive than Benzene in Electrophillic Substitution


What is relative molecular mass (RMM) and why use carbon-12?


What is the trend in reactivity of Group 2 elements with halogens as the group is descended?