Question

rank the following ions from smallest to largest. (smallest at top, largest at the bottom) * (0.5 points)
mg 2+
al 3+
na +
21
what is the group number for mercury? * (0.5 points)
12
3
1
13
6

Explanation:

• For the ion size ranking: These ions (\(Na^+\), \(Mg^{2+}\), \(Al^{3+}\)) are isoelectronic (have the same number of electrons). The more positive the charge (higher nuclear charge for the same electron - shell configuration), the more the electrons are pulled in. So, \(Al^{3+}\) has the highest positive charge and is the smallest, followed by \(Mg^{2+}\), and then \(Na^+\) (lowest positive charge among them, so largest in this set).
• For the mercury group number: Looking at the periodic table, mercury (\(Hg\)) is in group 12.

Answer:

• Ion ranking: \(Al^{3+}\), \(Mg^{2+}\), \(Na^+\)
• Mercury group number: 12