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

10425 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why are metals good conductors of electricity?


Describe and explain the changes between sulphuric acid with copper carbonate, connected to a test tube with limewater.


Describe how ethanol is produced from ethene.


Draw and explain the atomic structure of one atom of Chlorine.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences