QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Which element has the smallest atomic radius?
A. Calcium
B. Potassium
C. Scandium
D. Titanium
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this problem step by step, focusing on atomic radius trends in the periodic table.
Step 2:: Understand Atomic Radius Trends
Atomic radius depends on several factors: - Number of electron shells - Effective nuclear charge - Position in the periodic table
Step 3:: Analyze the Periodic Table Location
Let's look at the periodic table positions of these elements: - Calcium (Ca): Period 4, Group 2 - Potassium (K): Period 4, Group 1 - Scandium (Sc): Period 4, Group 3 - Titanium (Ti): Period 4, Group 4
Step 4:: Periodic Trends
In the same period, atomic radius generally decreases from left to right due to: - Increasing nuclear charge - More electrons in the same shell - Stronger attraction between nucleus and electrons
Step 5:: Comparative Analysis
From left to right in Period 4: Potassium (largest) → Calcium → Scandium → Titanium (smallest)
Step 6:: Reasoning
Titanium has the most protons and electrons in this group, resulting in the smallest atomic radius.
Final Answer
Titanium
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