The atomic radius generally increases down a group because

Options

  • A. The number of electron shells increases
  • B. The nuclear charge becomes zero
  • C. The number of valence electrons always decreases
  • D. The atomic mass decreases
  • E. None of the above

Correct Answer (Detailed Explanation is Below)

A. The number of electron shells increases

Detailed Explanation

Moving down a group adds electron shells, increasing the distance of the outer electrons from the nucleus and generally increasing atomic radius.