The internuclear distance is the sum of the ionic radii of the cation and the anion (d=r++r−). To maximize this distance, we need the largest cation and the largest anion.
- Cations: Cs is in Group 1 (Alkali metals), Period 6. Li is in Group 1, Period 2. Atomic/ionic size increases down a group. Therefore, r(Cs+)>r(Li+).
- Anions: I is in Group 17 (Halogens), Period 5. F is in Group 17, Period 2. Atomic/ionic size increases down a group. Therefore, r(I−)>r(F−).
Comparing the combinations:
- CsI: Largest cation (Cs+) + Largest anion (I−) → Maximum internuclear distance.
- LiF: Smallest cation (Li+) + Smallest anion (F−) → Minimum internuclear distance.
Therefore, CsI has the maximum internuclear distance.