Which of the following statements about ionization enthalpy (IE) trends and anomalies are CORRECT? — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

$Cu^+$ is $3d^{10}$, a highly stable full shell, making its $IE_2$ higher than $Zn^+$ ($3d^{10} 4s^1$). $P$ generally has higher IE than $Al$. $Ga$ has poor shielding from $3d$ electrons, increasing its $Z_{eff}$ and IE compared to $Al$. Statement D is incorrect; successive IEs *always* increase because removing an electron from a progressively more positive ion requires more energy.