A cation is larger than it was as a neutral atom because the added electrons occupy a higher energy level. True False

Question

Chemistry

Sammy Simmons

21 May, 06:05

A cation is larger than it was as a neutral atom because the added electrons occupy a higher energy level. True False

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Answers (2)

Know the Answer?

Amiya Odonnell · Answer 1

False. Cations lose electrons, so they are smaller than the neutral atom.

Oscar Wallace · Answer 2

False

Explanation:

Cation is formed from an atom by the loss of electrons.

For e. g., Na loses an electron to form Na+

Na - e → Na⁺

The electron configuration of Na: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹

The electron configuration of Na⁺: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶

In the formation of Na⁺ there is a loss of electron from the 3s orbital. As a result the size of the Na⁺ ion is less than Na atom.