Explain why the first ionisation energy of Strontium is less than the first ionisation energy of Calcium

Both of these elements are part of the 2nd group of elements on the periodic table. ie in first ionisation, their electron configuration changes from nS2 -> nS1.

Strontium is a much larger element, so the outermost electron will be further away from the nucleus (larger atomic radius. This distance decreases the attration of the electron to the nucleus, decreasing the first ionisation energy.

Because Strontium's outermost electron is in 5s rather than 4s (in Calcium): it experiences more electron repulsion which decreases ionisation energy by reducing the electron's ability to get close to the nucleus.

These two factors (atomic radius and electron shielding) decrease the effective nuclear charge experienced by the outermost electron in Strontium, causing the first ionisation energy to be lower than that of Calcium.

OH
Answered by Olivia H. Chemistry tutor

9380 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Write a balanced equation for the reaction between NaOH and sulfuric acid. A conical flask contains 25cm^3 of 0.124M NaOH, a burette contains 0.0625M sulfuric acid. Find the minimum amount of acid required to completely react with the NaOH in the flask.


Using principles of structure and bonding, explain why sulfur has a higher melting point than phosphorus


Describe, in three steps, how you would synthesise phenylethylamine (C6H5CH2CH2NH2) from methylbenzene, giving reagents and conditions for each step. For each step, state the type of reaction that occurs.


Why are transition metal ions in water coloured, but sodium in water is not?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning