alleryWhy is the size of a cation always smaller than its parent neutral atom?
ABecause it loses one or more electrons
BBecause it gains one or more electrons
CBecause it gains protons in the nucleus
DBecause its nuclear charge decreases
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. Because it loses one or more electrons
1. A cation forms when a neutral atom loses electrons.
2. The remaining electrons sit in inner shells and feel a stronger pull from the unchanged nucleus.
3. So the cation is smaller than its parent atom.
Gaining electrons would form an anion, which is larger, not smaller.
_Source: Samacheer Kalvi (TN SCERT) Class 10 Science, Unit 8 Periodic Classification of Elements "Ionic Radii", p.117_
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