The following data give estimated effective nuclear charges (Z_eff) experienced by…
CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Atomic Structure and Properties · Atomic Structure and Properties
Problem
The following data give estimated effective nuclear charges (Z_eff) experienced by the valence electrons of three consecutive Period 2 elements.
Element Z_eff Approximate average valence-electron distance r (Å)
B 2.0 1.30
C 2.60 1.10
N 3.10 1.05
(a) Using the data above, arrange B, C, and N in order of increasing first-ionization energy. Justify your ordering with quantitative reasoning.
(b) For the pair with the greatest difference in first-ionization energy, estimate the ratio of the electrostatic attractions acting on their valence electrons. Show your calculation.
(c) Explain why the ordering in part (a) might deviate slightly from a prediction based solely on effective nuclear charge.