Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The element has a strong nuclear charge and a small atomic radius.
B
The element has a low electronegativity and high atomic mass.
C
The element is located in the lower periods of the periodic table.
D
The element has a large number of valence electrons.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
A high ionization potential means that removing an electron is very difficult, which happens when the outer electron is tightly bound to the nucleus. This tight binding usually occurs because the electron is in a filled or nearly filled valence shell, giving the atom a very stable, low‑energy configuration. The attraction is stronger when the effective nuclear charge is high, as the nucleus pulls the electron in more forcefully. For example, neon has a full 2p shell and a strong nuclear pull, so its first ionization energy is one of the highest among the elements. Thus, the most likely cause of a high ionization potential is a stable, closed‑shell electron arrangement that strongly holds onto its electrons.
Detailed Explanation
A high ionization potential means it takes a lot of energy to remove an electron. Other options are incorrect because Some people think a low electronegativity means high ionization energy, but electronegativity measures attraction for shared electrons, not how hard it is to pull one out; Elements in the lower periods are actually larger and have extra electron layers, which makes it easier to remove electrons.
Key Concepts
Ionization Potential
Atomic Structure
Periodic Trends
Topic
Ionization Potential
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1How does the ionization potential trend across a period influence an element's reactivity?
hardChemistry
Practice
2
Question 2Which of the following statements accurately describe the ionization potential of elements? Select all that apply.
easyChemistry
Practice
3
Question 3Which of the following elements would you classify as having the highest ionization potential, and why does it belong in that category?
hardChemistry
Practice
4
Question 4How does the ionization potential influence an element's reactivity within the periodic table?
easyChemistry
Practice
5
Question 5How does the ionization potential trend across a period influence an element's reactivity?
hardChemistry
Practice
6
Question 6Which of the following elements would you classify as having the highest ionization potential, and why does it belong in that category?
hardChemistry
Practice
7
Question 7When an element in the periodic table has a high ionization potential, what is the most likely underlying cause for this characteristic?
mediumChemistry
Practice
8
Question 8How does the ionization potential influence an element's reactivity within the periodic table?
easyChemistry
Practice
Ready to Master More Topics?
Join thousands of students using Seekh's interactive learning platform to excel in their studies with personalized practice and detailed explanations.