Question

Using Coulombic attraction, explain why the atomic radius changes this way as you move across a

row/period on the periodic table? Use the words proton(s), electron(s), and attraction in your
explanation for full credit.

Answer 1

The atomic radius decreases as you move across a row or period on the periodic table due to Coulombic attraction between protons and electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

As you move across a row or period on the periodic table, the atomic radius decreases. This can be explained by the Coulombic attraction between protons in the nucleus and electrons in the energy levels. The number of protons increases across a period, thereby increasing the positive charge in the nucleus. This increased positive charge attracts the negatively charged electrons more strongly, pulling them closer to the nucleus and thus decreasing the atomic radius.

Learn more about Coulombic attraction and atomic radius