Ionization Energy: Who Has the Highest?

In summary, the atom with the largest first ionization energy is Krypton. However, if the question were to ask for the largest electronegativity or electron affinity, the answer would be Gallium since Krypton is an ideal gas. The only periodic trend that also pertains to ideal gases is the ionization energy trend, which increases from left to right across the periodic table. For questions about the largest atomic radius, the answer would be Potassium. It is important to note that ideal gases are actually noble gases, and in general, it is best to consult reliable sources such as Google for specific atomic data to confirm periodic trends. These trends are not invented, but based on experimental data and nature is always right.
  • #1
VanessaN
12
1

Homework Statement



Which of the following atoms has the largest first ionization energy?

  • Potassium,
  • Zinc,
  • Gallium,
  • or Krypton?

Homework Equations


No equation

The Attempt at a Solution



Krypton has the largest first ionization energy, but I was wondering how this question would be different if it were asking for the largest electronegativity or electron affinity?

In that case, since Krypton is an ideal gas, I would think that Gallium would have the largest electronegativity and electron affinity. And if a question were asking for the largest atomic radius, the answer would be Potassium. So my question is just making sure that the only periodic trend that also pertains to ideal gases would be the ionization energy trend (increasing from left to right across the period table), and atomic radius (if a question were to ask about the largest atomic radius, it increases down a group and decreases from left to right across the periodic table). Do I have that right? Because since the ideal gases have the full octet, I would think they would not have high electronegativities. Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Not "ideal gas" - noble gas.

In general - instead of asking, google for "atomic radius of xxx", or "electronegativity of xxx", collect the data and see if you are right, or not. Periodic trends are not invented, they are based on the experimental data. Paraphrasing words of Richard Feynman - it is nature that is always right.
 
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1. What is ionization energy?

Ionization energy is the amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule, resulting in the formation of a positively charged ion.

2. Why is it important to know who has the highest ionization energy?

Knowing which element has the highest ionization energy can help us understand the reactivity and chemical properties of elements. It also helps us predict how easily an atom or molecule will form an ion.

3. Which element has the highest ionization energy?

The element with the highest ionization energy is Helium (He), with an ionization energy of 24.59 eV.

4. Why does Helium have the highest ionization energy?

Helium has the highest ionization energy because it has a small atomic radius and a full valence shell of electrons, making it very stable. This stability makes it difficult to remove an electron from the atom, resulting in a high ionization energy.

5. How does ionization energy change across the periodic table?

Ionization energy generally increases as you move from left to right across a period in the periodic table. This is because the number of protons and electrons increases, resulting in a stronger attraction between the positively charged nucleus and the negatively charged electrons. However, ionization energy decreases as you move down a group, as the atomic size increases and the outermost electrons are further away from the nucleus, making them easier to remove.

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