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

21727 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Define the term relative isotopic mass. (2 Marks)


In terms of reaction mechanisms, what exactly is the rate-determining step?


Periodicity shows a fairly smooth increasing trend across a period for ionisation energy. However, between groups 2 & 3 and groups 5 & 6, the trend doesn't appear to be followed. Using your knowledge of chemistry, explain why the trend isn't followed here


An amino acid contains 52.2% carbon, 9.3% hydrogen, 8.7% nitrogen and 29.8% oxygen by mass and has a relative molecular mass of 161 g/mol. What is its molecular formula? What functional groups must it have?


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