Why is the first ionisation energy of barium larger than the first ionsiation energy of caesium?

Barium has one more proton than caesium. The outer electrons of both elements are in the same shell so they feel the same shielding effect. However, as barium has one more proton, barium's outer electrons will experience a greater nuclear attraction. Therefore, more energy will be required to remove an electron from barium than caesium, resulting in a larger first ionisation energy.

JL
Answered by Jeremy L. Chemistry tutor

5849 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

2-chloropropanoic acid has a Ka of 1.48E-3. Write an expression for Ka and hence or otherwise, calculate the pH of a 0.35M solution of 2-chloropropanoic acid


What is the difference between structural isomers and stereoisomers?


Thinking about the periodicity of the period 3 elements, explain the structure of the Sodium and Phosphorus Oxides and the acid-base behaviour of the Oxide solutions.


Explain why Magnesium has a greater second ionisation energy than strontium


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