small atom having much stronger bond

Question

Why atom with small size formed much stronger bond than atoms with large size? Please Explain.

Answer 1

Prasenjeet,

 

It all can be explained by the size and charge of the nucleus.  Since in small atoms the Bohr radius is small, that means that the electron(s) is (are) closer to the nucleus and, therefore, held more tightly.  In larger atoms, the electrons in the outermost shells are 1. farther from the nucleus and 2. shielded from the full effect of the attractive force of the nucleus by other electrons in the lower shells.  (Remember: like charges repel each other.)

Answer 2

Hello, thank you for taking the time to post your question!

It’s primarily based on the combination of a short bond length and highly effective orbital overlap. Because smaller atoms have fewer electron shells, the valence electrons are much closer to the nucleus, which allows the nuclei to get closer to each other when the atoms actually bond. Similarly, the valence orbitals are compact and located close to the nucleus which forms a concentrated electron cloud that acts like a strong glue to hold the atoms together tightly.

I hope that helps you get moving in a better direction on this type of question! Feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions beyond that :)