Positive Ion Formation

For those atoms in the first column of the periodic table which form stable positive ions, the ion usually has a considerably smaller radius than the neutral atom. What explains this effect?

Loading ...

Reveal Answer »

The electron in the neutral atom occupies an s orbital of higher n than the valence electrons of the positive ion. The former electron will stay, on average, farther from the nucleus than the inner electrons.

Subscribe below to receive the MCAT Question of the Day delivered straight to your inbox every morning.

Tags: Chemistry, Ions

« The Road to the MCAT

Monochromatic Light »

Comments are closed.

What is the MCAT?

The Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) is a test administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). The test is designed to test your knowledge in three specific sections; physical sciences such as physics and general chemistry, biological sciences and organic chemistry, and verbal reasoning.

How Should I Study?

The MCAT is a rigorous exam that requires months of planning in order to achieve a great score. It is recommended that you begin your study schedule 3 months prior to your exam date. In addition to answering our practice MCAT questions each day, read this article regarding studying for the MCAT from home.

Register for the MCAT.

The first question many people ask is, “when should I take the MCAT?” The general guideline is to take the MCAT the year before you plan to enter medical school. For example, the class of 2018 should take the MCAT sometime before or during the spring/summer of 2013. Your basic science coursework should be complete by this point.

Positive Ion Formation

Subscribe below to receive the MCAT Question of the Day delivered straight to your inbox every morning.

Join MCAT Domination

Random Question

Question Categories

Practice Exams

What is the MCAT?

How Should I Study?

Register for the MCAT.