Compare the first ionization energy () of Group 14 elements. Which of the following represents the c — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The trend is $C > Si > Ge > Pb > Sn$. The $IE_1$ of $Pb$ is anomalously higher than that of $Sn$ due to the extremely poor shielding of $4f$ and $5d$ electrons (lanthanide contraction) pulling the $6s$ electrons tightly.