Question

Which atom (magnesium or chlorine) is larger? _______________________(you should also be prepared to answer the question if asked for the smaller atom)3a. Explain why the atom is larger. Include the following terms in your answer: protons, electrons, shells or layers, columbic attractions

Answer 1

The magnesium atom is larger.

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnesium atom is larger because it is on the left side of the Periodic Table (period 3 and group 2) where the atomic radius is larger.

Atomic radius is the distance from the center of the nucleus of an atom to the most external electron shell.

The greater the columbic attractions, the closer the protons in the nucleus are to the electrons in the outer layers, making the size of the atom smaller.