Ionization Energies Calculation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating ionization energies and electron affinities, specifically in the context of high school chemistry. Participants clarify that Bohr's equation, E = -2.178 x 10^-18 J (z^2/n^2), is applicable only to hydrogen atoms and does not directly relate to ionization energies for other elements. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding nuclear effective charge and Coulomb's law for estimating ionization energies, particularly for elements like beryllium (Be).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Bohr's equation for hydrogen atoms
  • Familiarity with nuclear effective charge concepts
  • Knowledge of Coulomb's law
  • Basic principles of ionization energy and electron affinity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of nuclear effective charge in detail
  • Learn how to apply Coulomb's law to calculate ionization energies
  • Study the differences in ionization energies across different elements
  • Explore introductory chemistry resources on ionization energy calculations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school chemistry students, educators preparing for AP Chemistry exams, and anyone seeking to understand the foundational concepts of ionization energies and electron affinities.

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How do you go about calculating the ionization energies from atoms?
Electron affinities? (KJ/mol)
for example,

"Calculate the change in energy from the first and fourth ionization energies of Be?"

Recently on a test (CHEM AP HIGH SCHOOL), I had a question similar to this on an exam. I got it wrong b/c I believe that bohr's equation only worked for Hydrogen atoms.

E = -2.178 x 10^-18 J (z^2/n^2)

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Please do not include upper level (meaning above the level of an introductory course in chemistry) material that would enable the calcuations. Please include introductory level "ways" to the change in ionization energies.

Thank you
 
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The Bohr's equation only applies to hydrogen atoms. Actually it applies to hydrogen electrons and in this sense it is not directly related to ionization energies. In regards to a standardized equation which applies to all elements giving a quantitative value for ionization energies...I don't believe that this is in scope of high school ap chemistry.

The only equation which I can think of at this moment is that of nuclear effective charge. Which can only give you an idea of the relative values of first, second, third, fourth ionization energies. You are probably leaving out some information here which the test included. You can also use Columb's law, but you need to know the radius of Be.

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http://groups.msn.com/GeneralChemistryHomework
 
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