Multiple Choice
Based on periodic trends, which element has the smallest atomic radius?
2
views
9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius (Simplified)
Struggling with Introduction to Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius (Simplified) Which element has the smallest atomic radius?
A
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atomic radius generally decreases across a period (left to right) on the periodic table and increases down a group (top to bottom).
Identify the positions of the given elements on the periodic table: Sodium (Na) and Magnesium (Mg) are in period 3, Potassium (K) is in period 4, and Fluorine (F) is in period 2.
Recognize that moving from left to right across a period, the atomic radius decreases because the number of protons increases, pulling electrons closer to the nucleus.
Recognize that moving down a group, the atomic radius increases because additional electron shells are added, increasing the distance between the nucleus and the outermost electrons.
Compare the elements based on their positions: Fluorine (F) is furthest to the right and highest up among the options, so it has the smallest atomic radius.
2:02mWatch next
Master Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius (Simplified) Concept 1 with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Periodic Trend: Atomic Radius (Simplified) practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations