The valence electrons of elements in the lower left of the periodic table experience the greatest effective nuclear charge.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elements in the lower left of the periodic table have a higher atomic number and therefore more electrons and shells. The valence electrons in these elements are shielded by the inner electrons and experience a weaker effective nuclear charge. The elements in the upper right of the periodic table have the highest effective nuclear charge, meaning that their valence electrons experience a stronger attraction to the nucleus.

The Valence Electrons of Elements in the Lower Left of the Periodic