How big is an oxygen atom?

Answer by  HelpChat (494)

Oxygen atoms have 6 protons (also 6 neutrons and 6 electrons). Hydrogen atoms only have 1 proton (also 1 neutron and 1 electron). So, oxygen atoms are 6 times heavier and about 2.5 wider (60pm compared to 25pm) than hydrogen atoms.

Answer by  sonicfoundation (2597)

An oxygen atom had more mass than a hydrogen atom. By some definitions this would make it "bigger." Hydrogen has the smallest atomic number of all the elements and oxygen's atomic number is higher.

Answer by  monalily (218)

Oxygen atom is bigger than Hydrogen in terms of structure and number of electrons. Hydrogen atom has only one electron to use for making bonds with other atoms whereas Oxygen atom has eight electrons(therefore bigger size)to use for making strong bonds with other elements. This is the reason why Oxygen atom is heavier.