Question

Polarization of an anion is distortion of its electron cloud by an adjacently placed cation. Which of the following statement is correct?

• A. Minimum polarization is brought about by a cation of low radius.
• B. A large cation is likely to bring about a large degree of polarization.
• C. Maximum polarization is brought about by a cation of high charge.
• D. A small anion is likely to undergo large degree of polarization.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Maximum polarization is brought about by a cation of high charge.

As per Fajan's Rule: higher the charge, smaller the anion. Greater charge on cation lead to polarization of anion.