Question:

The correct order of atomic radii of the elements O, N, S and P is

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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.
Updated On: Jun 18, 2026
  • \(N < P < S < O\)
  • \(N < O < P < S\)
  • \(O < N < P < S\)
  • \(O < N < S < P\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

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: \[ \boxed{O < N < S < P} \]
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