The inner electrons are shielded to a `"______"` extent than the outer electrons.

Explanation

To answer the question, "The inner electrons are shielded to a ______ extent than the outer electrons," we need to understand the concept of shielding or screening effect in atomic structure.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Shielding Effect**:
- The shielding effect refers to the phenomenon where inner electrons reduce the effective nuclear charge experienced by outer electrons. This occurs because the inner electrons are located closer to the nucleus and can block some of the attractive force that the nucleus exerts on the outer electrons.

2. **Position of Electrons**:
- Inner electrons are found in the inner shells of an atom, while outer electrons are in the outermost shell. The inner electrons are closer to the nucleus compared to the outer electrons.

3. **Comparison of Shielding**:
- Since inner electrons are nearer to the nucleus, they experience a stronger attraction to the nucleus and are less influenced by the repulsive forces from other electrons. Conversely, outer electrons are more shielded from the nucleus by the inner electrons.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, we can conclude that inner electrons are shielded to a **lesser extent** than outer electrons because they are closer to the nucleus and experience a stronger nuclear attraction.

### Final Answer:
The inner electrons are shielded to a **lesser** extent than the outer electrons.

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