when comparing the size of a cation with its neutral atom, which is smaller?

Answer 1

cations are smaller b/c they have had an electron removedso the electron-electron repelling forces are lessened and there is more postive charge to go around the remaining electrons.

Answer 2

Cations are positive (pussative (mnemonic)). Since it is a positive ion, there is an electron/electrons missing. Fewer electrons means a smaller ion. The only size that matters is the orbits of the electrons since the nucleus is so much smaller. A cation should be smaller.

Answer 3

the cation because it has one less electron