Fluorine vs. Carbon Anion Size: Understanding Atomic Structure
No, the carbon anion is not bigger than fluorine. In fact, fluorine is the smallest and most electronegative element on the periodic table. This means that it has the strongest attraction for electrons and therefore forms the smallest anion. The carbon anion, on the other hand, is larger and less electronegative than fluorine. This means that it has a weaker attraction for electrons and therefore forms a larger anion.