Question

Select the larger atom in each pair.
a. S or Ar
b. S or O
c. S or K
d. S or Mg

Short answer

Part(a) S is larger atom.

Part(b) S is larger atom.

Part(c) K is larger atom.

Part(d) Mg is larger atom.

Step-by-step solution

Part(a) Step 1 : Given information

We are given $\mathrm{S}$ ordata-custom-editor="chemistry" $\mathrm{Ar}$ atoms. We have to find larger atom in pair.

Part(a) Step 2 : Simplify

As we know, as the nuclear charge increases, atomic size shrinks, drawing everything together and bringing the electrons closer to the nucleus.
As we progress from top to bottom, the atomic size grows as the electrons occupy larger and larger orbitals.

As a result, S and Ar exist.
Because S is at the left of the periodic table, it is the largest.

Part(b) Step 1 : Given information

We are given S or O atoms. We have to find larger atom in pair.

Part(b) Step 2 : Simplify

As we know, as the nuclear charge increases, atomic size shrinks, drawing everything together and bringing the electrons closer to the nucleus.
As we progress from top to bottom, the atomic size grows as the electrons occupy larger and larger orbitals.

As a result, there is a relationship between sulphur and oxygen.
So, because sulphur has a higher period number, it is a larger atom.

Part(c) Step 1 : Given information

We are given S or K atoms. We have to find larger atom in pair.

Part(c) Step 2 : Simplify

As we know, as the nuclear charge increases, atomic size shrinks, drawing everything together and bringing the electrons closer to the nucleus.
As we progress from top to bottom, the atomic size grows as the electrons occupy larger and larger orbitals.
As a result, S and K.
Because K has a bigger period number, it is a larger atom.

Part(d) Step 1 : Given information

We are given S or Mg atoms. We have to find larger atom in pair.

Part(d) Step 2 : Simplify

As we know, as the nuclear charge increases, atomic size shrinks, drawing everything together and bringing the electrons closer to the nucleus.
As we progress from top to bottom, the atomic size grows as the electrons occupy larger and larger orbitals.
As a result, S and Mg.
Because Mg has a bigger period number, it is a larger atom.