As you move down a group in the periodic table, the covalent radius increases. Atoms increase in size. This is because of the screening effect of the filled inner electron levels. These electrons ...

Want to learn more about this centerpiece of chemistry? Take your pick from this collection of links about elements and the periodic table! Build an element ball, solve periodic puzzles, and check out ...

The ions formed have a full outer electron shell, so are very stable. See the study guide on groups in the periodic table for more information.

The picture shows a close-up of one carbon atom. A hydrogen atom has one proton as the nucleus and one electron in the region outside the nucleus. The electron and proton are attracted to each other.