The exact radius of a polonium atom is 0.168 nanometers (NM).
Understanding Polonium's Atomic Radius
Polonium (Po), a rare and highly radioactive metalloid, possesses a specific atomic radius that defines its size at the atomic level. This measurement is crucial in various scientific fields, including chemistry, physics, and materials science, for understanding atomic interactions, crystal structures, and material properties.
The atomic radius of an element is typically measured as the distance from the nucleus to the boundary of the surrounding cloud of electrons. For polonium, this value has been determined with precision.
Key Atomic Property: Polonium's Radius
| Property | Value | Unit | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atomic Radius | 0.168 | nanometers (NM) | The typical distance from the nucleus to the outermost electrons. |
| Crystal Structure | Simple Cubic | N/A | The arrangement of atoms in solid polonium. |
Polonium's atomic radius of 0.168 nm is a fundamental characteristic that helps explain its behavior, particularly its tendency to form a simple cubic crystal structure when it solidifies. Understanding such precise atomic dimensions is vital for researchers working with nanoscale materials and advanced material design.
