The first ionization potential for S is lower than the first ionization potential for P because:
A) Hund's rule is violated
B) P has a p3 configuration
C) ionization potentials decrease across a representative period
D) P is to the right of S on the periodic table
E) P is below S on the periodic table

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first ionization potential is the energy required to remove the outermost electron from an atom in its gaseous state. S has a 3p4 configuration, while P has a 3p3 configuration. The p3 configuration of P means that it has one fewer electron in its outermost shell compared to S, making it more difficult to remove an electron from S.

The First Ionization Potential for S Is Lower Than the First