Question

How does the atomic radius change from top to bottom in Groups 1 and 2?

Answer 1

Answer:

Atomic radius increases from top to bottom in Groups 1 and 2

Explanation:

First we need to define Atomic radius;

• Atomic radius is the distance from the nucleus of an atom to the outermost energy level.
• Group I and Group II of the periodic table are made up of alkali and alkaline-earth metal respectively.

Second, we identify the trend in the number of energy levels down the group

• As you move down the group from top to the bottom, the number of energy levels of elements increases.
• For example, Lithium which is higher in group I has 2 energy levels while potassium which is lower in the group has three energy levels.

Third, we answer our question.

• Therefore, the atomic radius increases from top to the bottom of a group due to an increase in the number of energy levels.