Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
It decreases the ionization potential as more inner electrons repel the outer electrons
B
It increases the ionization potential by attracting outer electrons more strongly
C
It has no effect on ionization potential
D
It only affects ionization potential in transition metals
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
The shielding effect occurs when inner‑shell electrons push out outer‑shell electrons, making them feel less pull from the nucleus. Because the outer electrons are less strongly attracted, it takes less energy to remove one of them, so the ionization potential is lower. For instance, sodium (Na) has a 3s electron that is shielded by two 1s and two 2s/2p electrons, so its ionization energy is only about 5. 1 eV. In contrast, lithium (Li) has only two inner electrons, so the 2s electron feels a stronger pull and the ionization energy is higher, around 5.
Detailed Explanation
Shielding occurs when inner electrons push outward electrons, making the pull from the nucleus feel weaker. Other options are incorrect because Some think shielding makes outer electrons feel more pull, but actually it makes the pull weaker; It is easy to think shielding has no effect, but shielding changes how strongly electrons feel the nucleus.
Key Concepts
shielding effect
Topic
Ionization Potential
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1How does the shielding effect influence the periodic properties of elements within a group in the periodic table?
mediumChemistry
Practice
2
Question 2How does the shielding effect influence the metallic character of elements as you move down a group in the periodic table?
hardChemistry
Practice
3
Question 3How does the ionization potential trend across a period influence an element's reactivity?
hardChemistry
Practice
4
Question 4Which of the following statements accurately describe the ionization potential of elements? Select all that apply.
easyChemistry
Practice
5
Question 5How does the ionization potential influence an element's reactivity within the periodic table?
easyChemistry
Practice
6
Question 6How does the shielding effect influence the periodic properties of elements within a group in the periodic table?
mediumChemistry
Practice
7
Question 7How does the shielding effect influence the ionization potential of an atom?
easyChemistry
Practice
8
Question 8How does the ionization potential trend across a period influence an element's reactivity?
hardChemistry
Practice
9
Question 9Which of the following statements accurately describe the ionization potential of elements? Select all that apply.
easyChemistry
Practice
10
Question 10How 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.