Atomic radius is the distance from the nucleus of an atom to the outer boundary of its electron cloud, which determines the size of the atom. It generally decreases across a period due to increased nuclear charge and increases down a group due to the addition of electron shells.

Atomic Radius

Atomic radius

distance from the nucleus

nucleus of an atom

outer boundary of its electron cloud

size of the atom

Nuclear charge refers to the total charge of the nucleus, which is determined by the number of protons and is a fundamental factor in influencing atomic structure and chemical behavior. It affects the attraction between the nucleus and electrons, impacting ionization energy, electron affinity, and atomic radii.

nuclear charge

decreases across a period

increases down a group

addition of electron shells

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