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.
Related Chemistry A Level answers
All answers ▸What is a buffer and what do you need to make one?
Explain the reactions of CH3CH2Cl with the nucleophile NH3 and name the initial product formed.
Describe and explain one anomalous property of water.
outline the mechanism for the nitration of methyl benzoate and show how sulfuric acid behaves as a catalyst