Question

Place the following in order of increasing size: (explain why!!!!)

O2-, F1-, Li1+

Answer 1

these ions are in the same period, that is, same row

then we can compare directly, since if we had different rows the analysis will be more complex

by definition

ions = loss of electrons

Li+ means it is positive charged, it losed 1 electron

then, this is the smallest one, since the electron cloud shrinks due to the abscence of an electron

then comes F-; since it gained 1 electron, the electorn cloud is expanded

finally, comes O2-; which has 2 extra electrons, therefore, ther eis plently of charge to expand it evne more (i.e. O- then O-2)

order of size

O2-> F- > Li+