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Why is it important to consider how the effective nuclear charge (Zeff) changes across a period...

Why is it important to consider how the effective nuclear charge (Zeff) changes across a period when determining atomic properties?

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Effective nuclear charge(Zeff) is important because atomic properties depend on it. Depending on Zeff atomic size can vary. It can also be used to explain certain anamolous properties exhibited by elements. Zeff can be expressed as,

Zeff = Z - S

where Z = atomic number and S = number of shielding electrons.

Zeff is actually the net chage of the nucleus as felt by an electron in an element. Therefore if the value of Zeff is more, the net charge experienced by the electrons will be more and as a result they are more pulled towards the nucleus. Thus atomic size decreases. Conversely, if the value of Zeff is low, the net charged experienced by electrons will be less and as a result size increases.

In case of anomolous properties shownby f-block elements, lanthanide and actinide contraction are the property used to explain them. This is also a consequence of Zeff.

Thus it is important to consider Zeff while considering periodic properties.

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