effective nuclear charge

Question

Effective nuclear charge (Zeff) experienced by valence electrons:

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**Effective Nuclear Charge ($Z_{eff}$)** is the actual net positive charge experienced by an electron in a multi-electron atom.
- Across a period (left to right), the number of protons (atomic number $Z$) increases by one at each step.
- Simultaneously, electrons are added to the **same valence shell**.
- Since the shielding provided by electrons in the same shell is not perfect, the gain in $Z$ outweighs the gain in shielding $(\sigma)$.
- Result: $Z_{eff}$ increases across a period, pulling electrons tighter and reducing atomic radius.

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Effective nuclear charge (Zeff) generally: