Effective Nuclear Charge
| Formula / Notation | Z_eff = Z − σ (Slater's rules) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Z_eff; net nuclear charge; screened nuclear charge; shielded nuclear charge; Slater Z_eff |
What is Effective Nuclear Charge?
Effective nuclear charge (Z_eff) is the net positive charge experienced by an electron in a multi-electron atom, after accounting for the shielding (screening) effect of other electrons. It is always less than the actual nuclear charge Z because inner-shell electrons partially shield outer electrons from the full nuclear attraction. Z_eff increases across a period and is approximately constant down a group.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Z_eff; net nuclear charge; screened nuclear charge; shielded nuclear charge; Slater Z_eff
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Effective nuclear charge (Z_eff) is the net positive charge experienced by an electron in a multi-electron atom, after accounting for the shielding (screening) effect of other electrons. It is always less than the actual nuclear charge Z because inner-shell electrons partially shield outer electrons from the full nuclear attraction. Z_eff increases across a period and is approximately constant down a group.
Explaining periodic trends (atomic radius, ionisation energy, electronegativity); understanding why elements across a period become smaller; predicting chemical reactivity; quantum chemistry calculations
No hazard — a theoretical atomic property.
The formula or notation for Effective Nuclear Charge is: Z_eff = Z − σ (Slater's rules)