Why are Na atoms depicted smaller than Cl atoms in Chemistry books?

Thread starter skepticwulf
Start date May 8, 2015
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Atomic Atomic radii Sodium

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In chemistry textbooks, sodium (Na) atoms are often depicted smaller than chlorine (Cl) atoms, despite Na having a larger atomic radius. This discrepancy arises because the illustrations typically utilize ionic radii rather than atomic radii. When considering ionic sizes, Na ions are indeed smaller than Cl ions due to their respective charges and electron configurations. The confusion stems from the distinction between atomic and ionic radii in visual representations. Accurate depictions are crucial for understanding atomic interactions and bonding.

May 8, 2015

skepticwulf

Atomic radii of Na is much bigger than of Cl yet the drawings in Chemistry books often depict Na atoms smaller than Cl. Is there a reason for that??

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May 8, 2015

Borek

Mentor

Are you sure these drawings don't use ionic radii?

May 8, 2015

skepticwulf

Oopps, you're right, they're ionic :)

thank you.

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