The discussion centers on the relationship between the proton-to-electron ratio and atomic size in the periodic table. Participants clarify that while the ratio is 1:1, the increasing nuclear charge in the same shell leads to a stronger attraction between the nucleus and electrons, resulting in decreased atomic radius. The concept of nuclear charge concentration is emphasized, and Coulomb's Law is identified as a key principle explaining the forces acting on charged particles.
PREREQUISITESThis discussion is beneficial for chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding atomic structure and periodic trends.
You want to say that i shouldn't see to that ratio of 1:1 but to consider as nuclear charge increases in a particular shell so it attracts electrons more strongly. Like this?Alexmer said:You seem to have the idea that each proton and electron cancel out the other's electric field. Really, the nucleus acts as a large positive particle that pulls each electron individually. Increasing the charge of the nucleus increases the pull, thereby decreasing the atomic radius.
Ohk tyAlexmer said:Yes. Look into Coulomb's Law if you would like to understand why.