Ionization energy ?

Being given the following elements and their electronic configuration

#B(1s^2 2s^2 2p^1)#

#C(1s^2 2s^2 2p^2)#

#N(1s^2 2s^2 2p^3)#

#O(1s^2 2s^2 2p^4)#

determine what element has the greatest first ionization energy.

1 Answer
Jun 21, 2018

You ask us to determine this without data. It is probably nitrogen.

Explanation:

All things being equal, the atom with GREATEST #Z# should require most energy to ionize by reason of increased nuclear charge. However, Hund’s rule of maximum multiplicity operates, favouring maximum spin state...and this applies to ATOMIC nitrogen. Anyway you need to consult data to establish the order.