How does the size of an atom change when it is converted to an anion and a cation?

Answer 1

A cation is an element that loses electrons in order to achieve a pseudo-noble gas electron configuration:

Hence, when a cation loses electrons it has an uneven number of (p+) and (e-). The protons then pull harder on the electrons or (e-) because there is more positive charged subatomic particles than there are negatively charged subatomic particles. The remaining electrons are closer to the nucleus making the cation smaller in size than the original atom.

Answer 2

The size of an anion is larger than the parent atom. The electrons decrease due to the addition of an electron. A cation is smaller than the parent atom. The electrons increase due to the removal of an electron.

Answer 3

When an atom is converted to an anion (negatively charged ion), it typically increases in size because it gains extra electrons, leading to increased electron-electron repulsion and a larger electron cloud. Conversely, when an atom is converted to a cation (positively charged ion), it usually decreases in size because it loses electrons, resulting in a stronger attraction between the fewer electrons and the nucleus.

Answer 4

In going from neutral to an anion, the atom gains an electron or electrons. In so doing, the atomic size becomes larger.