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In a Chemistry 101 sort of way:

Helium has more protons, thus more nuclear charge. Its valence electrons are in the same shell but are being "pulled closer" by the protons, so the total diameter of nucleus + electron shell is "smaller."

The reality is, of course, much more complex. Here's Physicsforum (generally a good source) teaching more:

http://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=306457



Thanks for the explanation. Now, it makes sense to me.


Not to mention that hydrogen tends to be diatomic (H_2), while He comes in singles.




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