Question detail
Which trend is observed in atomic radius across Period 3?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Periodicity
Question
- A. Increases
- B. Decreases
- C. Remains constant
- D. Fluctuates
Answer
Decreases
Explanation
The atomic radius decreases across Period 3 due to increasing nuclear charge, which pulls the electrons closer to the nucleus, resulting in a smaller atomic size.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Block Classification
Students often confuse the block classification of elements with their position in the periodic table, failing to link it to the electron configuration.
To correctly classify elements, remember that the block (s, p, d, f) corresponds to the highest energy sublevel that is being filled. For example, elements in the s block have their outermost electrons in the s sublevel. Use the periodic table to identify the block and then write the electron configuration to confirm.
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