Ionic Radius
Definition
Ionic radius refers to measure of an atom's ion in a crystal lattice. Cations (positively charged ions) are typically smaller than neutral atoms, while anions (negatively charged ions) are larger due to changes in electron configuration upon ionization.
Analogy
Consider ionic radii as different sizes of balloons at a party. Some balloons (cations) lose air and become smaller when they give away their electrons, while others (anions) gain air and become larger when they gain electrons.
Related terms
Ionization Energy: The energy required to remove an electron from an atom or ion.
Electron Affinity: The amount of energy released when an electron is added to a neutral atom to form a negative ion.
Isoelectronic Ions: These are ions that have the same number of electrons or identical electronic structures.
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