Question

which of the following is the atomic radius of chlorine if the internuclear distance between two chlorine atoms is 200 pm?
a 196 pm
b 90 pm
c 100 pm
d 200 pm

Explanation:

Step1: Recall atomic - radius concept

The internuclear distance between two identical atoms in a molecule is equal to twice the atomic radius. Let the atomic radius of chlorine be $r$. The internuclear distance $d = 2r$.

Step2: Solve for atomic radius

Given $d = 200$ pm, we can solve for $r$ using the formula $r=\frac{d}{2}$. Substituting $d = 200$ pm into the formula, we get $r=\frac{200}{2}=100$ pm.

Answer:

C. 100 pm