Question: Which element has the smallest atomic radius?
Options:
Helium
Hydrogen
Lithium
Beryllium
Correct Answer: Helium
Solution:
Helium has the smallest atomic radius due to its high effective nuclear charge and minimal electron shielding.
Which element has the smallest atomic radius?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which element has the smallest atomic radius?
Helium
Hydrogen
Lithium
Beryllium
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which element has the smallest atomic radius?
Step 1: Understand what atomic radius means. Atomic radius is the distance from the nucleus of an atom to the outermost shell of electrons.
Step 2: Know that atomic radius can vary among different elements. Generally, it decreases as you move from left to right across a period in the periodic table.
Step 3: Recognize that helium is located at the top right of the periodic table, which is where elements have the smallest atomic radii.
Step 4: Learn that helium has a high effective nuclear charge, meaning the positive charge from the nucleus pulls the electrons closer, resulting in a smaller radius.
Step 5: Note that helium has only two electrons, which means there is minimal electron shielding, allowing the nucleus to exert a strong pull on the electrons.
No concepts available.
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