Explain why the second ionisation energy of Magnesium is lower than the second ionisation energy of Sodium.

For the 2nd IE of Na an electron is being removed from the 2p subshell.For the 2nd IE of Mg an electron is being removed from the 3s subshell.It requires more energy to remove an electron from a lower energy shell. The shielding on the electron is greater in Mg+.

NR
Answered by NATHAN R. Chemistry tutor

16967 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

The boiling point of the halogen elements increase down the group from chlorine to bromine to iodine. Please explain this trend for 3 marks.


Why is the Mg2+ ion smaller in radius than the Na+ ion?


What is a standard electrode potential?


The reversible reaction 2 SO2 (g) + O2 (g) <-> 2 SO3 (g) has a delta H value of -197 kJ/mol. Use Le Chatelier's principle to explain what conditions would give the highest equilibrium yield and why industry uses different conditions. (5 marks)


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