Question:medium

From the following atoms, which will show the lowest first ionization energy (\( \text{IE}_1 \))?

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Ionization energy increases across a period due to the increasing effective nuclear charge, but exceptions arise due to electron configuration stability.
Updated On: Feb 10, 2026
  • C
  • N
  • O
  • F
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Ionization Energy Trend.
Ionization energy generally increases across a period from left to right owing to increasing nuclear charge. Exceptions exist due to electron configuration, notably in nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O), where half-filled or filled orbitals offer greater stability.

Step 2: Comparison of the Given Elements.
- (C) Carbon exhibits the lowest first ionization energy as it is in the 2nd period and possesses fewer protons than the other elements, facilitating electron removal.- (N) Nitrogen displays a higher ionization energy than carbon, attributed to its stable half-filled configuration.- (O) Oxygen's ionization energy is higher than carbon's but lower than nitrogen's.- (F) Fluorine possesses the highest ionization energy due to its strong electronegativity and diminutive size.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Consequently, Carbon (C) is the element with the lowest first ionization energy, correlating to option (1).

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