Question

Does atomic size increase down a group?

Answer 1

1. Atomic radius reduces over a span of time as valence electrons are introduced to the same energy range at the same time as protons rise in the nucleus.
2. The growth of nuclear charge pulls more intensely the electrons, pulling them closer to the nucleus.
3. In general, the atomic radius decreases across a period and increases in a group over time.
4. The number of energy levels (n) increases in a group downwards, since there is a larger distance between the nucleus and the outermost orbital.
5. This results in an atomic radius that is greater.
6. Atomic radii differ throughout the periodic table in a consistent manner.
7. The atomic radius increases in a category from top to bottom, as can be seen in the figures below, and decreases over a span from left to right.