CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Atomic Structure and Properties · Atomic Structure and Properties
Problem
Consider the neutral atoms potassium (K, Z=19), calcium (Ca, Z=20), and gallium (Ga, Z=31).
(a) For each atom, specify the principal energy level (n value) of the electron that is removed during the second ionization.
(b) Rank the second ionization energy of the three atoms from greatest to least and provide a thorough justification based on nuclear charge, shielding, and relative distance of each electron from the nucleus.
(c) Which of the three elements is most likely to form a stable +2 cation in aqueous solution? Justify your answer using your ranking from part (b) as well as periodic trends in atomic structure.