Chapter 6, Problem 74A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason due to which a radius of an atom cannot be measured directly needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The radius of an atom is defined as the measure of the size of the atom. It is the distance between the middle of the nucleus to the edge of the neighboring shells of electrons.

Explanation of Solution

The radius of an atom cannot measure directly because the electrons are always moving so their position is always changing. The spacing or distribution of electrons in the electron cloud changes based on its size. Hence, it is difficult to measure the radius of an atom.