* Atomic Number: Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, meaning it has 7 protons and 7 electrons. Carbon has an atomic number of 6.

* Electron Shells: Both nitrogen and carbon have 2 electrons in their first electron shell. However, nitrogen has 5 electrons in its second shell, while carbon only has 4.

* Effective Nuclear Charge: The positive charge of the nucleus pulls on the electrons. While nitrogen has a higher nuclear charge, the additional electron in its second shell is further away from the nucleus, experiencing a slightly weaker attraction. This results in a larger atomic radius for nitrogen compared to carbon.

In summary: While nitrogen has a stronger nuclear charge, its larger number of electrons in its outer shell leads to a larger atomic radius.