The correct order of atomic radii of the elements O, N, S and P is
Show Hint
Atomic radius decreases across a period from left to right and increases down a group. Always locate the elements in the periodic table before comparing their sizes.
Step 1: Recall the trend of atomic radius in the periodic table.
Atomic radius decreases from left to right across a period due to increasing effective nuclear charge.
Atomic radius increases down a group due to addition of new shells.
Step 2: Compare O and N.
Both oxygen and nitrogen are in the second period.
Nitrogen (Z = 7) lies to the left of oxygen (Z = 8).
\[
r(N) > r(O)
\]
Hence,
\[
O < N
\]
Step 3: Compare P and S.
Both phosphorus and sulfur are in the third period.
Phosphorus (Z = 15) lies to the left of sulfur (Z = 16).
\[
r(P) > r(S)
\]
Hence,
\[
P > S
\]
Step 4: Compare second and third period elements.
Elements in the third period have an additional shell compared to those in the second period, so they are larger.
\[
r(P), r(S) > r(N), r(O)
\]
Combining all results:
\[
O < N < S < P
\]
Step 5: Final conclusion.
Thus, the correct order of atomic radii is:
\[
\boxed{O < N < S < P}
\]