Which one of these atoms has the largest effective nuclear charge, Z_eff? A) Na B) K C) Al D) Ar E) F

Question

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Ar has the largest effective nuclear charge because it has the most protons (18) in its nucleus, which attracts the electrons in its outermost energy level most strongly. Na and K have only 1 electron in their outermost energy level, so their effective nuclear charge is not as strong. Al has 13 protons in its nucleus, which is lower than Ar, so its effective nuclear charge is also lower. F has only 9 protons in its nucleus, so its effective nuclear charge is even lower.

Which One of These Atoms Has the Largest Effective Nuclear