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Compare the radius of a potassium ion to the radius of a potassium atom.

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User JoeNCA
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The radius of a potassium ion (K+) is typically smaller than the radius of a potassium atom (K). This is because when an atom loses one or more electrons to become an ion, it loses some of its electron cloud, leading to a decrease in size.

The atomic radius of a neutral potassium atom (K) is larger because it has its full complement of electrons. In contrast, a potassium ion (K+), which has lost one electron, has fewer electrons, leading to a smaller electron cloud and a smaller ionic radius.

However, it's important to note that the exact size of ions and atoms can vary depending on their specific electronic configurations and the environment in which they exist. Ionic radii can also change depending on the coordination number and the type of crystal lattice in which the ion is found.

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User Toohool
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