Question:

Which group elements have the smallest atomic radii in their respective periods?

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Atomic radius shrinks across a period as nuclear charge rises, and the halogens have the smallest radii before the noble gases.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • group 15
  • group 16
  • group 17
  • group 18
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Moving left to right in a period, the nuclear charge increases while the electrons are added to the same shell. The pull on the outer electrons grows, so the radius drops.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Among the groups 15, 16, 17 and 18, group 17 (the halogens) shows the smallest covalent radius in each period. Group 18 is a special case: noble gases are listed by van der Waals radius, which is larger, so they are not counted as the smallest.

Step 3: Check the options.
Groups 15 and 16 come earlier in the period, so their radii are larger than those of group 17.

Final Answer:
Group 17 has the smallest atomic radii, option (C). \[ \boxed{\text{Group 17}} \]
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