higher polarizability

[Sofia Ban]

If two ions have the same charge, why is the smaller one the one with higher polarizing power?

[Francis_Nguyen3D]

The smaller cation has higher polarizing power because of its electronegativity. Because of its small size and the fact that it wants electrons, the cation is able to hold onto electrons better. So overall, the smaller the atomic/ionic radius, the more polarizing power the atom/cation has. (charge also plays a role in polarizing power for it can affect the size of the ion)

[Edward Xie 2E]

The smaller cation has a more positive charge, so it would pull electrons more strongly.

[Raj_Bains_2C]

The bonding electrons of the smaller atom would be closer to the nucleus so they would be more attracted to the positive charge from the protons.

[Kevin Arokiaraj 4E]

This is because the smaller cation has a higher positive charge, as such the electron pull is much stronger.