Polarizing power (charge density proxy) (Polarizing power increases with higher effective nuclear charge and smaller ionic radius)
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Polarizing power increases with higher effective nuclear charge and smaller ionic radius (φ ∝ Z_eff / r²).
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| r | Ionic radius |
| φ | Polarizing power of cation (qualitative scale in JEE) |
| Z_eff | Effective nuclear charge felt by valence electrons |
When to use this
Used to rationalize diagonal relationship (Li⁺ ≈ Mg²⁺, Be²⁺ ≈ Al³⁺ in polarizing ability), covalent character in salts, and thermal stability trends of carbonates.