Answer: Smaller (loss of electrons reduces shielding, pulls remaining electrons in).
- A Smaller (loss of electrons reduces shielding, pulls remaining electrons in)
- B Larger, since removing electrons reduces nuclear attraction overall in the majority of cases studied
- C Essentially the same size as the neutral parent atom as widely reported
- D Roughly double the radius of the neutral parent atom in standard practice
Correct answer: A. Smaller (loss of electrons reduces shielding, pulls remaining electrons in)
Explanation: Cations form by losing electrons; fewer electrons but same nuclear charge means greater attraction and smaller radius.
VSEPR theory predicts molecular shape from the number of bonding and lone electron pairs around the central atom.
Concept context
Understand how atoms join to form molecules. Covers ionic and covalent bonding, VSEPR theory, hybridization (sp, sp², sp³), molecular orbital theory, bond polarity, and intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonding.
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