Final answer:
The correct answer is B) Shielding effect, which refers to the reduction in the electrostatic attraction between the nucleus and the outer electrons due to the presence of inner electrons.
Step-by-step explanation:
The answer to the student's question, 'The ________ is caused by inner electrons interfering with the attraction of the outer electron for the protons in the nucleus,' is B) Shielding effect. The shielding effect occurs because the inner electrons in an atom cause a decrease in the electrostatic pull between the nucleus and the outer electrons. This reduction in force allows the outer electrons to be held less tightly to the nucleus, which can affect properties like ionization energy.
The term electron shielding refers to the shielding action these inner electrons provide against the attractive forces of the protons in the nucleus. The concept is crucial in understanding atomic structure and its influence on chemical reactivity and trends in the periodic table.