Chapter 6, Problem 38A

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Between sodium and lithium, the one with the larger atomic radius is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

The periodic table is a columnar structure that organizes different elements into groups based on how they behave. The elements in the periodic table of today are ordered according to the periodic law. The elements are organized in the modern periodic table in increasing order of their atomic number.

Answer to Problem 38A

Sodium

Explanation of Solution

Down the group, atomic radius increases. Lithium and sodium are placed in the same group (group 1). Sodium is present below the lithium. Thus, the atomic radius of sodium is larger than lithium.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Between strontium and magnesium, the one with a larger atomic radius is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

The electron configuration of an element defines how its electrons are arranged throughout its atomic orbitals. Standard notation is used to represent atomic electron configurations, placing all electron-containing atomic subshells in sequential order. The number of electrons held by the subshell is indicated by superscript.

Answer to Problem 38A

Strontium

Explanation of Solution

Down the group, atomic radius increases. Strontium and magnesium are placed in the same group (group 2). Strontium is present below the magnesium. Thus, the atomic radius of strontium is larger than magnesium.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Between carbon and germanium, the one with a larger atomic radius is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

The electron configuration of an element defines how its electrons are arranged throughout its atomic orbitals. Standard notation is used to represent atomic electron configurations, placing all electron-containing atomic subshells in sequential order. The number of electrons held by the subshell is indicated by superscript.

Answer to Problem 38A

Germanium

Explanation of Solution

Down the group, atomic radius increases. Carbon and germanium are placed in the same group (group 14). Germanium is present below the carbon. Thus, the atomic radius of germanium is larger than carbon.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Between selenium and oxygen, the one with a larger atomic radius is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

The electron configuration of an element defines how its electrons are arranged throughout its atomic orbitals. Standard notation is used to represent atomic electron configurations, placing all electron-containing atomic subshells in sequential order. The number of electrons held by the subshell is indicated by superscript.

Answer to Problem 38A

Selenium

Explanation of Solution

Down the group, atomic radius increases. Oxygen and selenium are placed in the same group (group 16). Selenium is present below the oxygen. Thus, the atomic radius of selenium is larger than oxygen.