first ionization energy

[Jan Hill]

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

Given the atomic orbitals for a number of elements eg. neon 1s^22s^22p^6 and lithium 1s^2s^1 and phosphorus 1s^22s^2p^63s^23p^3

How would I determine which of these would have the highest first ionization energy and what is meant by first ionization energy?


2. Relevant equations



3. The attempt at a solution

[ideasrule]

Check your textbook. Specifically, look for a description of how first ionization energy varies according to an element's position on the periodic table. The concept of first ionization energy is too crucial for one post to do it justice.