Why is the first ionisation energy of Potassium less than Sodium?

The first ionisation energy is the energy required to move one mole of electrons from one mole of atoms in its gaseous state.
The outer electron in Potassium is in the 4s orbital, which is further away from the nucleus than the 3s orbital of the Sodium. The greater distance means that the attraction between the electron is weaker.
The electron in Potassium is also more affected by shielding due to more shells, further weakening this attraction. This means that less energy is needed to remove the outermost electron and therefore the ionisation energy is lower.

AR
Answered by Abida R. Chemistry tutor

32042 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Define relative atomic mass.


What is a disproportionation reaction?


Why can graphite be used as a lubricant?


Explain why the first ionisation energy of strontium is less than the first ionisation energy of calcium


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