What does the ionization energy quantitatively measure about an atom?

1 Answer
anor277
Oct 30, 2015

#M(g) + Delta rarr M^+(g) + e^-#

Explanation:

As shown, ionization energy is the energy associated with the formation of 1 mol gaseous cations, and 1 mol of gaseous electrons, from 1 mol of gaseous element.

Ionization energies tend to follow a Periodic Trend. They increase across a Period, and decrease down a Group. Why should this be so?

Related questions
See all questions in Periodic Trends in Ionization Energy
Impact of this question
3582 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License