The second ionisation energies are higher than the first ionisation energies
CHEMISTRY · Single correct · A Level · Chemistry · Transition metals and their chemistry · Transition metals and their chemistry
Problem
The second ionisation energies are higher than the first ionisation energies. This is mainly due to the fact that after the removal of the first electron, the atom changes into monovalent positive ion. In the ion, the number of electrons decreases but the nuclear charge remains the same. As a result of this, the remaining electrons are held more tightly by the nucleus and it becomes difficult to remove the second electron. Therefore, the value of second ionisation energy ( IE2 ), is greater than that of the first ionisation energy ( IE1 ). Similarly third ionisation energy ( IE3 ) is greater than that of second IE2 .
Correct order of ionisation potential of coinage metals is:
(1) Au > Ag > Cu
(2) Cu > Ag > Au
(3) Au > Cu > Ag
(4) Ag > Cu > Au