Regents Chemistry Exam August 2024 Question 8
8 When a cesium atom becomes a positive ion, there is a change in electron configuration and radius. Which statement describes this change?
(1) The atom gains an electron, and the radius increases.
(2) The atom gains an electron, and the radius decreases.
(3) The atom loses an electron, and the radius increases.
(4) The atom loses an electron, and the radius decreases.
Solution:
Electrons are negative. To become a positive ion, an atom has to lose electrons. Losing electrons leads to a smaller radius. Chocie 4 is the correct answer choice.
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