Question

For each of the following pairs, identify which would have the larger of the indicated property. Explain your reasoning thoroughly in each case.

Bonding radius – nitrogen (N) or silicon (Si)

Ionic radius – oxide (O2-) or magnesium (Mg2+)

Answer 1

Silicon (Si) bonding radius will be larger than Nitrogen (N)

In periodic table, elements from top to bottom size increases . So larger the atom will have larger the bonding radius.

Oxide ionic radius ( O^2-) is larger than (Mg²⁺)

In general anions will have more number of electrons and less number of protons than neutral atoms so ionic radius will expand

In cations will have less number of electrons and more number of neutrons , so its ionic size will be compressed than netral atoms.