Question

What is the difference between magnesium atom and magnesium ion by mass??

Answer 1

Dear student

There is no difference in Mg atom and Mg ion, in terms of mass. But in terms of size, Mg²⁺ ion is smaller than the parent Mg atom. This is because, Mg²⁺ ion is formed, when Mg atom loses its two valence electrons.Thus ​as electrons are removed, the nucleus attracts the electrons, which are fewer than before, even more strongly. Thus, the distance between the nucleus and the valence orbit decreases, hence this decreases the size for Mg²⁺

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