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

32892 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is an optical isomer?


Draw the structure, name the shape and show bond angles of the molecules XeF4 and SbF4-. In your answer explain why each structure is different, despite both having a central atom, surrounded by 4 fluorine atoms.


Elements in the periodic table show a trend in atomic radius. State and explain the trend in atomic radius from Li to F.


What is fractional distillation used for in industry? Explain the molecular basis behind it.


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