Explain why first ionisation energy decreases down a group.

As you go down the group, ionisation energy decreases because there are more electron shells and shielding increases, therefore the outer electron is further away from the positive nucleus and is less strongly attracted to it.

IA
Answered by Ifsa A. Chemistry tutor

3687 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the shape of p orbitals?


Which has a lower boiling point chlorine or bromine, and why?


Why are zinc and Scandium not transition metals?


What is meant by the term optical isomerism?


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