Question

which of the following is the atomic radius of chlorine if the internuclear distance between two chlorine atoms is 200 pm?
a 90 pm
b 200 pm
c 196 pm
d 100 pm

Explanation:

Step1: Recall atomic - radius concept

The internuclear distance between two identical atoms is equal to twice the atomic radius. Let the atomic radius of chlorine be $r$. The internuclear distance $d$ between two chlorine atoms is given by $d = 2r$.

Step2: Solve for atomic radius

We know that $d=200$ pm. Rearranging the formula $d = 2r$ to solve for $r$, we get $r=\frac{d}{2}$. Substituting $d = 200$ pm into the formula, we have $r=\frac{200}{2}=100$ pm.

Answer:

D. 100 pm