Explain why the first ionisation energy of Al is less than that of Mg?

The outer electron on aluminium is removed from the 3p sub-level, whereas the outer electron on magnesium is removed from the 3s sub-level.The 3p sub-level is higher in energy than the 3s sub-level.Aluminium's outer electron is further away from the nucleus and less attracted to the nucleus.This means less energy is needed to remove the electron from aluminium.

Answered by Chemistry tutor

22483 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are 'Rate equations' and why are they useful?


explain why the electronegativity of fluorine is greater than that chlorine


Describe how a buffer solution based on hydrochloric acid can act as a buffer. (5)


PharmaPlus, a drug developer, is required by law to carry out clinical trials on the novel drug ‘AccuPreasure’. AccuPreasure is to be marketed for control of high blood pressure. Give three questions that clinical trials are designed to answer.


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