Explain why the trend in ionisation energy changes between group 5 and 6

Group 5 and 6 have a different electronic structure, with group 6 having one extra electron that group 5.

If we look at Hunds rule, which states that electrons must occupy orbitals individually before pairing up. This is crucial in the P orbitals in which there are 3. (X, Y and Z) taking oxygen and nitrogen for example nitrogen is in group 5. It has 3 electrons in its P orbitals, thus one electron is each orbital. Oxygen is in group 6, with 4 electrons in the P orbitals. The first orbital has 2 electrons and the other two have 1 electron.

We know electrons are negative so in that first orbital of oxygen they must repel. This makes it easier to remove this electron so the energy required decreases. The general trend of ionisation energies is for it to increase across a period.

KR
Answered by Kavita R. Chemistry tutor

20825 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Predict the bond angles and shape of a molecule of ammonia.


How does the reducing ability of halide ions vary?


Why is Kekule's benzene structure an inaccurate representation of the molecule?


Why does the solubility of Group 2 hydroxides in water increase down the group?


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