P3+(g) --> P4+(g) + e-: Highest Ionization Energy

[Soaring Crane]

Which ionization process requires the most energy?

a. P(g) --> P+(g) + e-
b. P3+(g) --> P4+(g) + e-
c. P2+(g) --> P3+(g) + e-
d. P+(g) --> P2+(g) + e-

Is it b. P3+(g) --> P4+(g) + e- because this is the fourth ionization energy (which requires highest amt.)?

Thanks.

 

[Soaring Crane]

Any volunteers?

Thank you.

 

[Gokul43201]

Yes, that is correct.

Each successive IE is greater than the previous one, because each ionization process removes one electron and hence increases the total attractive force on the remaining electrons (from the nucleus).