Which statement explains why large atoms are more reactive than small atoms? a. large atoms have valence electrons farther from the nucleus and lose them more readily. b. large atoms have greater ionization energy, which they can utilize during a reaction. c. large atoms have a greater number of electrons that they can lose during a reaction. d. large atoms have more energy levels, so they have more energy to pass on in a reaction.

A. Large atoms have valence electrons farther from the nucleus and lose them more readily, so they are more reactive than small atoms.

For example, the valence electron of a small atom like Li is tightly held. Lithium gently fizzes on the surface as it reacts with the water to produce hydrogen.

In contrast, the valence electron of a large atom like Cs is so loosely held that cesium exlodes on contact with water.

a. energy is absorbed in the reaction.

if in a given reaction the energy of products is greater than the energy of reactants it means that reaction is endothermic and during the reaction, the energy is absorbed by reactants. in an endothermic reaction, the products have more stored chemical energy than the reactants. and in this reaction the reactants are more stable than products before the compounds with less energy are always more stable.