A set of graphs displays the first and second ionization energies for the Period 3…
CHEMISTRY · Subjective · A Level · Chemistry · Periodicity and periodic trends · Periodicity and periodic trends
Problem
A set of graphs displays the first and second ionization energies for the Period 3 elements (Na through Ar). The graph shows that the ratio IE2/IE1 is largest for one element in this period. Identify this element and give a short explanation—based on its electron configuration—for why the second ionization energy is so much larger than the first.