akcapr Posted April 17, 2007 Share Posted April 17, 2007 the zinc atom is smaller than the Ca atom, yet Calcium has a higher atomic number? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Darkblade48 Posted April 17, 2007 Share Posted April 17, 2007 ??? Zinc has a higher atomic number (30) than calcium (20) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sisyphus Posted April 17, 2007 Share Posted April 17, 2007 Assuming you mean "has a smaller radius" for "smaller," and "lower" atomic number instead of "higher," the answer is that increasing the number of protons in the nucleus means the electrons are more attracted and move in closer. When there isn't a higher electron shell added, that generally means the atom gets smaller. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
insane_alien Posted April 17, 2007 Share Posted April 17, 2007 what sisyphus said ^. just a chemical guy backing him up. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now