Explain why the second ionisation energy of boron is higher than the first ionisation energy of boron.

Boron is the 5th element in the periodic table, and has an electron configuration 1s22s22p1. The first ionization energy of Boron is the energy required to remove the single 2p electron, while the second ionization energy of boron is the energy required to remove one of the two 2s electron. If we already have removed the 2p electron, then we are left with a positively charged Boron ion, and it is harder to remove another electron from an already positively charged species. Moreover, the 2s electrons are closer to the nucleus and are held in the atom with a greater force. That is why the second ionization energy of Boron is higher.

AI
Answered by Adelina I. Chemistry tutor

36335 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I get better at organic synthesis?


Write down the electronic configuration of a copper ion in this complex ion: [Cu(H2O)6]2+


Nitric acid (HNO3) is a strong acid. Ethanoic acid (CH3COOH) is a weak acid. Write an equation to show how ethanoic acid behaves as a weak acid in its reaction with water.


How would you find out whether a reaction is feasible?


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