Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Ionization potential generally increases across a period from left to right.
B
Elements with a high ionization potential are typically more reactive.
C
Ionization potential decreases as you move down a group in the periodic table.
D
Ionization potential is the same for all elements regardless of their position in the periodic table.
E
Nonmetals generally have higher ionization potentials than metals.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
The ionization potential is the amount of energy required to remove an electron from a neutral atom in its ground state. It tends to rise across a period because the nuclear charge increases while shielding stays roughly the same, making it harder to pull off an electron. Down a group the potential falls because added electrons increase shielding and the outer electrons are farther from the nucleus, so less energy is needed. Noble gases have the highest ionization potentials in their periods because their outer shells are full and stable. For example, hydrogen’s first ionization energy is 13.
Detailed Explanation
As you go from left to right across a period, the nucleus gains protons while shielding stays roughly the same. Other options are incorrect because Some people think a big energy requirement means the element will give up electrons easily, but the opposite is true; The idea that ionization energy gets bigger the farther down a group is common, but the trend is actually opposite: electrons are farther from the nucleus and shielded, making them easier to remove, so the energy needed drops.
Key Concepts
Ionization Potential
Periodic Trends
Atomic Structure
Topic
Ionization Potential
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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