Which of the following statements best explains why the atomic radius increases from top to bottom of the periodic table?
A.
The ionization energy decreases from top to bottom of the periodic table, so the atoms near the bottom have an increased capacity for electrons.
B.
The electronegativity decreases from top to bottom of the periodic table, so the atoms near the bottom have an increased capacity for electrons.
C.
For the atoms lower in the periodic table, the valence electrons are in higher energy levels and farther from the nucleus.
D.
For the atoms lower in the periodic table, there is more difference in charge between the electrons and the protons, which allows electrons to orbit farther from nucleus.
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