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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true about the atomic size of transition metals?
A
The atomic radius decreases from left to right as the number of protons increases.
B
The atomic radius remains relatively constant because electrons are added to an (n − 1) orbital.
C
The atomic radius increases from left to right as electrons are added to an outer orbital.
D
The atomic radius decreases from left to right as Zeff increases.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of atomic radius: Atomic radius is the distance from the nucleus of an atom to the outermost shell of electrons. It generally decreases across a period due to increasing nuclear charge.
Identify the role of transition metals: Transition metals are elements found in the d-block of the periodic table, where electrons are added to the (n-1)d subshell.
Analyze the effect of electron addition in transition metals: As electrons are added to the (n-1)d orbital, the increase in nuclear charge is somewhat offset by electron-electron repulsions within the d subshell, leading to a relatively constant atomic radius.
Consider the effective nuclear charge (Zeff): The effective nuclear charge is the net positive charge experienced by valence electrons. In transition metals, Zeff increases, but the added electrons in the (n-1)d orbital provide some shielding, maintaining a relatively constant atomic size.
Conclude the trend for transition metals: Unlike main group elements, the atomic radius of transition metals remains relatively constant across a period because the added electrons enter the (n-1)d orbital, which does not significantly increase the atomic size.