Photoelectron data for a gaseous, neutral element Q are summarized in the table below.
Subshell
Binding energy (kJ·mol⁻¹)
Relative peak area
1s
1 600
2.0
2s
460
2.0
2p
300
6.0
3s
75
2.0
3p
45
1.0
Assume peak areas are directly proportional to the number of electrons in the corresponding subshell.
(a) Determine the total number of electrons present in one atom of element Q, showing how you arrive at your answer from the spectral data.
(b) Write the complete ground-state electron configuration for element Q.
(c) Identify element Q by its chemical symbol and justify your choice with reference to its position in the periodic table.
(d) Compare the first ionization energy of element Q with that of its immediate neighbor to the right in the same period. State which element is expected to have the higher first ionization energy and explain your reasoning.