How does the size change when an atom forms a cation and when an atom forms an anion?

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Dana Finley

Chemistry

27 June, 12:50

How does the size change when an atom forms a cation and when an atom forms an anion?

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Karlie Moran · Answer 1

A cation is an atom that loses a valence electron. When a valence electron is released there is one electron less to create a repulsive force. The loss of a repulsive force will allow the atom to pull tighter together. An anion would therefore be larger in size due to increased repulsion of the valence electrons.