is considerably more covalent than , despite and having nearly identical ionic radii. This differenc — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

$Ag^+$ has an 18-electron pseudo-inert gas configuration ($[Kr] 4d^{10}$). The $d$ -electrons shield the nuclear charge less effectively than the $s$ and $p$ electrons in the 8-electron inert gas configuration of $K^+$. This gives $Ag^+$ a higher effective nuclear charge at its surface, resulting in stronger polarizing power and greater covalent character.