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

12407 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain why Ethanoic acid has a higher PH than Hydrochloric acid?


Predict the products of electrolysis of molten calcium chloride and explain which ions are at each electrode


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.


What are the different factors that contribute to bonding?


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