Charge versus size

[Jane Burgan 1C]

For small, highly charged cations that have greater polarizing power, do we look at the size or the charge of the cation first to determine its polarizing power? For example, if we’re comparing Be2+ and Li+, which one has more polarizing power? Is it Li+ because it’s smaller or Be2+ because it’s more highly charged?

[Shash Khemka 1K]

You have to factor in size as well as charge. Be2+ would have a higher polarizing power since it is similar in size to Li+ but it has a higher charge. The higher charge indicates a stronger pull towards the nucleus due to the reduced amount of electrons. Hope this helps, good luck studying!