Why is chlorine more reactive than iodine?

Chlorine has fewer shells than iodine - chlorine has 2 and iodine has 4. We know this by referring to the periodic table. This means its outer electrons are closer to the nucleus.Because they are closer - outer electrons feel more attraction towards the nuclear charge. Chlorine's nucleus can attract outer electrons more easily as there is less shielding of the nucleus.Chorine can therefore gain an electron more easily which makes it more reactive.

AS
Answered by Antonia S. Chemistry tutor

10768 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

The equation for the reaction of carbon and nickel dioxide is: NiO + C ----> CO + Ni Calculate the percentage atom economy of this reaction to produce nickel to 3 significant figures.


In what circumstances can an ionic compound conduct electricity? How?


What is the number of protons in an atom also called?


How can you increase the yield of product from a reaction?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning