Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Sodium (Na)
B
Chlorine (Cl)
C
Neon (Ne)
D
Potassium (K)
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
The element with the highest first ionization potential is helium. Helium’s single electron shell (1s²) is completely filled, making it a very stable, noble‑gas configuration. Because its two electrons are held tightly by a strong nuclear attraction and the electron cloud is very small, it takes a lot of energy to remove one of them. This is why helium’s first ionization energy (about 24. 6 eV) is higher than that of any other element.
Detailed Explanation
Neon is a noble gas, meaning its outer electron shell is full. Other options are incorrect because Sodium is an alkali metal; Chlorine is a halogen that likes to gain an electron.
Key Concepts
Ionization Potential
Periodic Trends
Chemical Reactivity
Topic
Ionization Potential
Difficulty
hard level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1Which of the following elements has the highest electronegativity?
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Question 2Which statement best explains why nonmetals generally have higher ionization potentials compared to metals?
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Question 3Which of the following statements accurately describe the ionization potential of elements? Select all that apply.
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Question 4When an element in the periodic table has a high ionization potential, what is the most likely underlying cause for this characteristic?
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Question 5How does the ionization potential influence an element's reactivity within the periodic table?
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Question 6Which of the following elements has the highest electronegativity?
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Question 7Which of the following statements accurately describe the ionization potential of elements? Select all that apply.
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Question 8Which of the following elements would you classify as having the highest ionization potential, and why does it belong in that category?
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Question 9When an element in the periodic table has a high ionization potential, what is the most likely underlying cause for this characteristic?
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Question 10How does the ionization potential influence an element's reactivity within the periodic table?
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