akcapr Posted April 17, 2007 Posted April 17, 2007 the zinc atom is smaller than the Ca atom, yet Calcium has a higher atomic number?
Darkblade48 Posted April 17, 2007 Posted April 17, 2007 ??? Zinc has a higher atomic number (30) than calcium (20)
Sisyphus Posted April 17, 2007 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.
insane_alien Posted April 17, 2007 Posted April 17, 2007 what sisyphus said ^. just a chemical guy backing him up.
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