Question:medium

Which of the following elements has the smallest atomic radius?

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Across a period in the periodic table, atomic radius decreases due to increasing nuclear charge.
Updated On: Nov 26, 2025
  • Na
  • Mg
  • Al
  • Si
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Elements Na, Mg, Al, and Si are in Period 3. Across a period from left to right: - Atomic number rises. - Effective nuclear charge increases. - Electrons enter the same shell, strengthening the nucleus's pull on outer electrons. Consequently, atomic radius diminishes across a period. Atomic radius ranking: \[ \text{Na} > \text{Mg} > \text{Al} > \text{Si} \] Answer: Si exhibits the smallest atomic radius among these elements. Option (4) is the correct choice.
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