Question

Identify the pair of elements in which the difference in atomic radii is maximum.

• A. \( C, N \)
• B. \( O, F \)
• C. \( P, S \)
• D. \( Li, Be \)

Hint:

Across a period: Atomic radius decreases due to increasing nuclear attraction.
- Down a group: Atomic radius increases due to added electron shells.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The difference in atomic radii depends on periodic trends: - Across a period, atomic radii decrease due to increasing nuclear charge. - Down a group, atomic radii increase due to additional electron shells. 1. Comparison of atomic radii (in pm): - \( C = 77 \), \( N = 75 \) → Difference = 2 pm
- \( O = 66 \), \( F = 64 \) → Difference = 2 pm
- \( P = 106 \), \( S = 102 \) → Difference = 4 pm
- \( Li = 152 \), \( Be = 112 \) → Difference = 40 pm
Since the difference in atomic radii is maximum for Lithium (Li) and Beryllium (Be), they are the correct answer. Thus, the correct answer is \(\boxed{Li, Be}\).