Discover the Largest Ion in an Isoelectronic Series: S2-, Cl-, K+, and Ca2+

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In summary, an isoelectronic series is a group of ions with the same number of electrons but varying nuclear charges. The ions in this series are S2-, Cl-, K+, and Ca2+. When comparing the size of these ions, it is important to consider the relative proton number with the electron number, also known as the effective nuclear charge. Typically, an isoelectronic cation is smaller than the anion due to a smaller proton number for the former. Therefore, the largest ion in this series would be Cl-.
  • #1
whozum
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15. The following ions comprise an isoelectronic series: S2, Cl, K+, and Ca2+
Which is the largest ion?

A. S2-
B. Cl-
C. K+
D. Ca2+
E. All should be the same size.

Don't even know what one is.
 
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  • #2
What are your periodic trends for atomic size?
 
  • #3
Atomic radius increases to the left and down.
 
  • #4
Does the term "isoelectronic series" do anything for this problem?
 
  • #5
It just means that all ions have exactly the same number of electrons, the only thing that changes is nucleus charge.
 
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  • #6
It quite self-explanatory, atoms with the same number of electrons. You should be able to figure out the electron number in a neutral atom of the element, and further deduce the electron number of a corresponding ion.

In reference to the size of each of these, you'll need to consider the relative proton number with the electron number, effective nuclear charge. Typically, a isoelectronic cation is smaller than the anion because you've got the same number of electrons for both with a smaller proton number for the latter.
 
  • #7
Not to blow any trumpets here but this essentially summarizes what has been said above by Borek and GenChemTutor, about comparing radii among isoelectronic ions.
 

Related to Discover the Largest Ion in an Isoelectronic Series: S2-, Cl-, K+, and Ca2+

1. What is an isoelectronic series?

An isoelectronic series is a group of atoms or ions that have the same number of electrons. This means that they have the same electronic structure and similar properties.

2. How do you determine the largest ion in an isoelectronic series?

The size of an ion is determined by its atomic radius, which is influenced by the number of electrons and their arrangement. In an isoelectronic series, the ion with the most protons will have the smallest atomic radius, while the ion with the least protons will have the largest atomic radius.

3. Why is S2- the largest ion in this isoelectronic series?

S2- has the largest atomic radius because it has the least amount of protons (16) compared to the other ions in this series. This means that it has the most electrons and the outermost electrons experience less nuclear pull, resulting in a larger atomic radius.

4. How does the size of the ions affect their properties?

The size of an ion can affect many of its properties, such as its reactivity, solubility, and melting point. Larger ions tend to be less reactive and have lower melting points, while smaller ions tend to be more reactive and have higher melting points.

5. How can this information about isoelectronic series be applied in other areas of science?

Understanding isoelectronic series can be useful in chemistry, physics, and even biology. It can help predict the properties and behaviors of different elements and ions, as well as aid in the design of new compounds and materials.

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