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

13493 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

If 9g of alumnium reacts with 35.5g of chlorine, what is the empirical formula of the compound formed?


What is the relative formula mass of ammonium nitrate, NH4NO3?


List the first 4 halogens as they appear in the periodic table as they appear. What does your answer suggest about their relative reactivity?


What is the difference between a metal and a transition metal?


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