Shielding effect

When we talk about shielding effect, it means that there are some things that can block something else from getting in, just like an umbrella blocks raindrops from falling on you.

In the case of atoms, electrons are like raindrops and the nucleus (the middle part of the atom) is like you. There are different levels or shells around the nucleus where the electrons hang out.

When there are more “umbrellas” or shells around the nucleus with electrons in them, those outer electrons are not as attracted to the nucleus and it becomes easier to take them away or “remove” them.

So, if an atom has a lot of shells and lots of electrons in those shells, it has good shielding effect. The outer electrons are not very tightly held in place and can be more easily detached.

If an atom has only a few shells or not many electrons in those shells, it has poor shielding effect. The outer electrons are held more tightly and it is harder to remove them.

This shielding effect is important because it affects the way atoms bond together and interact with each other, which in turn affects how molecules and materials are formed.