Question

Al3+ and N3- have same electronic configuration but the latter is smaller than former why?

Answer 1

Correct Question:

Al3+ and N3- have same electronic configuration but the former is smaller than latter. Why?

Correct Answer:

Al3+ is smaller than N3- due to greater nuclear charge.

- Both Al3+ and N3- have 10 electrons, i.e., they are isoelectronic.

- But the size of Al3+ is quite smaller than N3-.

- It is due to the greater nuclear charge in Al3+ ion.

- The no of protons is more in Al3+, i.e., 13. So it experiences a greater attraction and hence smaller size.

- The no of protons is less in N3-, i.e., 7. So it experiences a lower attraction and hence larger size.