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Why are larger atoms polarizable? What is their effect on the Debye force?

If the size of a nonpolar atom is greater, it means that the atom has a higher number of electron containing orbitals. The outer electrons are away from experiencing the inward attractive pull of the nucleus (nuclear charge) and capable of undergoing electron-cloud distortion or polarization. 

In the presence of polar molecules, such large electron clouds of the nonpolar atom undergo a shift in their electron density to form temporary positive and negative poles. The greater the distortion due to polar molecules, the higher the induced polarity in the nonpolar atoms, leading to the stronger intermolecular attraction between the polar-nonpolar molecules.

For example, consider a polar molecule HF and nonpolar molecules like He and Ar. The HF shows stronger interactions with Ar because of Argon's larger atomic size. On the other hand, the HF-He interaction is weak due to the smaller atomic size of He. 

Why are larger atoms polarizable? What is their effect on the Debye force?

 

Related Reading: Debye Force

 
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