The relation between first and second ionization potentials of a given atom is:

Correct answer: A. I1 < I2

  • A. I1 < I2
  • B. I1 > I2
  • C. I1 = I2
  • D. None of the above

Explanation

The magnesium and sodium atoms have roughly the same size. What differs is the effective nuclear charge, which is +1 for Na and +2 for Mg. Hence, Mg has a stronger bond between its valence electrons and its nucleus and requires more energy to remove the electron.Compared to the first ionization potential, the value of second ionization potential of an element is greater. For second ionization potential, an electron is to be removed from uni positive cation. There is the strong electrophilic attractive force between the unipositive ion and the electron to be removed.

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