Describe the theory associated with the radius of an atom as it:
$(a)$ Gains an electron
$(b)$ Loses an electron

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) The atomic radius is defined based on the nature of the bond,such as metallic radius or covalent radius,which is half the internuclear distance between bonded atoms.
$(a)$ When an atom gains an electron,it forms a negative ion (anion). The radius of an anion is always larger than that of its parent neutral atom. This is because the addition of one or more electrons increases the electron-electron repulsion,while the effective nuclear charge $(Z_{eff})$ decreases,causing the electron cloud to expand.
$(b)$ When an atom loses an electron,it forms a positive ion (cation). The radius of a cation is always smaller than that of its parent neutral atom. This is because the loss of electrons results in a higher effective nuclear charge per remaining electron,pulling the electron cloud closer to the nucleus.
In summary,for isoelectronic species: $\text{radius of cation} < \text{radius of neutral atom} < \text{radius of anion}$.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Which of the following is the smallest cation?

What is the correct order of atomic radius of $Al, Na, B$ and $Be$?

Which of the following is the smallest in size?

The size of the following species increases in the order:

Which of the following represents the incorrect order of ionic or atomic radii?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo