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Chapter 8: Problem 49

Define ionization energy. Ionization energy measurements are usually made when atoms are in the gaseous state. Why? Why is the second ionization energy always greater than the first ionization energy for any element?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Ionization energy is the amount of energy needed to remove an electron from a neutral atom or molecule. Measurements of ionization energy are normally conducted on atoms in the gaseous state, as atoms are separate from one another, allowing more accurate measurement. The second ionization energy is always greater than the first because after an electron has been removed, the atom is positively charged, increasing the attraction of the remaining electrons to the nucleus, requiring more energy to remove the next electron.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Ionization Energy

Ionization energy is defined as the amount of energy needed to remove an electron from a neutral atom or molecule.
02

Explanation of Ionization Energy Measurements

Ionization energy measurements are typically made when atoms are in the gaseous state because in this state, atoms are separate from one another, allowing for single atoms to be ionized. This ensures more accurate measurements of the energy required for ionization as it eliminates the possibility of variances due to intermolecular forces.
03

Understanding Second Ionization Energy

The second ionization energy is always greater than the first because, when the first electron is removed, the atom becomes a positively charged ion. This means the remaining electrons are attracted to the nucleus with a stronger force due to the increase of net positive charge. Therefore, more energy is required to remove the next electron, resulting in the second ionization energy being greater than the first.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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