Question

When a chlorine atom forms an ion its radius increases, but when a sodium atom forms an ion its radius decreases. Explain this apparent contradiction.

Answer 1

Answer:

When a chlorine atom forms an ion, it gains electrons, making it negative. A neutral chlorine will become a chlorine with a -1 charge. When it gains an electron, the radius increases.

When a sodium atom forms an ion, it loses electrons, making it positive. A neutral sodium will become a sodium with a +1 charge. When it loses an electron, the radius decreases.

Answer 2

What occurs when an atom of chlorine forms a chloride ion? (1) The chlorine atom gains an electron, and its radius becomes smaller. The chlorine atom gains an electron, and its radius becomes larger.