Question

which element will have the smallest atomic radius? potassium (k) calcium (ca) gallium (ga) germanium (ge)

Explanation:

Step1: Recall atomic - radius trend

Atomic radius decreases across a period (from left - to - right) in the periodic table due to an increase in effective nuclear charge.

Step2: Identify the period

The elements K, Ca, Ga, and Ge are all in the fourth period.

Step3: Determine the element with the smallest radius

Among K, Ca, Ga, and Ge, Ge is the furthest to the right in the period. So, it has the smallest atomic radius.

Answer:

germanium (Ge)