Question

Compare the elements of group 15 with those of group 16 in relation to the following property:

Atomic radii

Answer 1

1. Atomic radii of group 15 elements are generally larger than those of group 16 elements in the same period because group 15 elements have one less proton, resulting in a lower nuclear charge.
2. In group 16, increased nuclear charge pulls electrons closer, making atomic radii smaller compared to group 15 elements.
3. Both groups show an increase in atomic radii down the group due to the addition of electron shells.

Thus, group 16 elements have smaller atomic radii than group 15 elements in the same period, but sizes in both groups increase similarly down the group due to electron shell addition.