Atomic Structure and Trends

These flashcards cover key concepts related to atomic structure, trends in atomic radius, ionization energy, and the behavior of elements in the periodic table.

Atomic Radius

The distance from the nucleus of an atom to the outermost electron shell.

Ionization Energy

The amount of energy required to remove an electron from the outermost shell of an atom.

Shielding Effect

The phenomenon where inner electrons reduce the effective nuclear charge felt by outer electrons, impacting their stability.

Reactivity of Metals

Tends to increase down a group and decrease across a period due to the atomic radius changes.

Noble Gases

Gases that are generally unreactive due to having a full outer electron shell.

Fluorine

The most reactive nonmetal, requiring only one more electron to complete its outer shell.

Sodium vs. Lithium

Sodium has a larger atomic radius and lower ionization energy compared to lithium, making it easier to lose an electron.

Trends in Atomic Radius

Atomic radius decreases from left to right across a period and increases from top to bottom down a group.

Francium

The element with the highest atomic radius.

Helium vs. Hydrogen

Helium generally has the lowest atomic radius, though hydrogen can appear smaller in some models.

Energy Levels

Different layers where electrons reside around a nucleus; greater distance from the nucleus leads to lower attractive power.