Explain the trend in atomic radii from Lithium to Fluorine?

As we go from Li to F, atomic radius of the atoms will DECREASE. This is due to increased nuclear charge (number of protons within each atom). Although the number of electrons also increases, each additional electron is placed within the same electron shell, so all the electrons are the same distance from the nucleus. This means the increased nuclear charge has a greater force of attraction on the electrons, drawing them closer to the nucleus, hence causing a decrease in atomic radius.

AH
Answered by Alexander H. Chemistry tutor

42273 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why does the atomic radius decrease as you move along a period.


How do you describe the process of recrystallisation to purify a product?


Why is benzene more stable than expected?


Write down the equation for the Gibbs Free Energy change of a reaction. Hence explain why, for a spontaneous endothermic reaction, there must be an increase in the total entropy.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning