Question

question 2 of 10
which of the following elements is the smallest?

a. beryllium (be)

b. strontium (sr)

c. magnesium (mg)

d. calcium (ca)

Explanation:

To determine the smallest element among Beryllium (Be), Strontium (Sr), Magnesium (Mg), and Calcium (Ca), we use the periodic table trend for atomic size. These elements are all in Group 2 (alkaline earth metals). As we move down a group, the number of electron shells increases, so atomic size increases. The order from top to bottom in Group 2 is Be (period 2), Mg (period 3), Ca (period 4), Sr (period 5). So Be is at the top, has the fewest electron shells, and is the smallest.

Answer:

A. Beryllium (Be)