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

29673 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a Sodium Potassium Pump? How does it work?


What are the stereochemical implications of bimolecular and unimolecular nucleophilic substitution?


State the qualitative tests to distinguish between halide ions in solution.


Explain, in terms of atomic energy levels, how an atomic emission spectrum is formed


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