Question

What are the two radii shown as 'a' and 'b' in the figure known as?

• A. a = Atomic radius, b = Molecular radius
• B. a = Covalent radius, b = van der Waals' radius
• C. a = Ionic radius, b = Covalent radius
• D. a = Covalent radius, b = Atomic radius

Answer 1

The correct option is B a = Covalent radius, b = van der Waals' radius

a is covalent radius. It is half of the distance between two similar atoms joined by a covalent bond in the same molecule. b is van der Waal's radius. It is half of the distance between two similar atoms in separate molecules in a solid.