Which Ion from Na+ and Mg2+ has a smaller atomic radii? Explain why?

The smaller ion of the two would be Mg2+. Both ions have the same electronic arrangement so the amount of shielding occuring for both ions is the same. The key difference between the ions that causes the Mg2+ to have a smaller atomic radii, is that it has more protons within its nucleus, hence a greater nuclear charge than Na+ which means it will attract the valence electrons on the ion to a greater degree, shortening the distance between the nucleus and valence electrons and so making the ion smaller. 

TB

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the mechanism for the nucleophilic substitution of a halogenoalkane?


Explain the two assumptions involved in the Ka weak acid dissociation equation.


Describe the arrangement of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom of Neon (Atomic No. 10, Atomic Weight 20.18). You may use diagrams to aid you.


Why do ionisation energies increase across a period?