What is the trend in first ionisation energy across a period?

Overall, the general trend is an increase across the period.

The decrease in shielding (as outer electrons are less influenced by the nucleus) is outweighed by an increased nuclear charge and a decreased atomic radius.

However, the value actually decreases between group 2 and 3. This is a result of the electronic configurations of these elements. The outermost electron in Be (in a 2s orbital) is less easily removed than that of B (in a 2p orbital). The same occurs from group 5 and 6.

BW
Answered by Ben W. Chemistry tutor

13246 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Methane is a Hydrocarbon. Show the structural formula for Methane and Explain why it is a hydrocarbon?


Calculate the percentage of Copper in Copper oxide (CuO, Mr=80). (3 marks)


Give the characteristics of a homolgous series.


Explain how a compound such as Magnesium Oxide has a high melting point and conducts electricity when molten


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning