3 Explain the term shielding as relates to the structure of

3) Explain the term \"shielding\" as relates to the structure of the atom.

Solution

We know that atom consists of Protons in the Nucleus of the atom which carries Positive Charge and  Electrons carrying negative charge revolving around the Nucleus .

Since the Electrons and Protons are oppositely charged , there exists a Electrostatic attraction between the Electrons And the Nucleus.

Since Except atomic Hydrogen all the atoms consists of more than 1 electron or they have a multi - Electron system.

In such milti- electron systems some electrons are close to the nucleus while there are some electrons which are present in the outer orbits or in the Valence shell of the atom .

Due to the presence of electrons in the inner orbits the effective electrostatic force between the outer electrons and the Nucleus reduces .

This Phenomenon of reduction of Effective Nuclear charge over the outer Electrons in the valence shell is called the  Shielding Effect.