A large difference between the fourth and fifth ionization energies indicates the presence of : — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: A massive energy gap between successive fourth and fifth ionization energies (IE_5 >> IE_4) indicates that the fifth electron is being removed from a stable inner shell core. Step 2: This means that there are exactly 4 electrons in the outermost (valence) shell that can be removed relatively easily before encountering the inner noble gas configuration. Step 3: Therefore, the element must possess exactly 4 valence electrons, corresponding to option (c).