Explain why the first ionisation energy of Al is less than that of Mg?

The outer electron on aluminium is removed from the 3p sub-level, whereas the outer electron on magnesium is removed from the 3s sub-level.The 3p sub-level is higher in energy than the 3s sub-level.Aluminium's outer electron is further away from the nucleus and less attracted to the nucleus.This means less energy is needed to remove the electron from aluminium.

Answered by Chemistry tutor

27143 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between ionic and metallic bonding?


How do you determine the shape and bond angle of an ammonia molecule?


Part 1: Calculate the empirical formula for a substance with the following composition: H 6.71%; C 40.00%; O 53.29%


Consider the following reaction: C2H4 + HBr -> ?. a) What is the product of the reaction? Name the compound and give the structural formula. b) What is the type of the reaction? c) Draw a reaction mechanism.


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