Question

which of the following elements has the smallest atomic radius: li, c, o, f?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the trend of atomic radius in the periodic table

Atomic radius decreases across a period (from left to right) and increases down a group. Li is in period 2, group 1; C is in period 2, group 14; O is in period 2, group 16; F is in period 2, group 17.

Step2: Compare the atomic radii based on group position

Since they are in the same period (period 2), as we move from left to right (from group 1 to group 17), the atomic radius decreases. The order of groups from left to right is Li (group 1) < C (group 14) < O (group 16) < F (group 17).

Answer:

F has the smallest atomic radius among Li, C, O, and F.