Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between the first ionization energy () a — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question
Question
Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between the first ionization energy ($IE_1$) and the second ionization energy ($IE_2$) of Copper ($Cu$) compared to Potassium ($K$)?
Answer: B
💡 Solution & Explanation
$IE_1(Cu) > IE_1(K)$ due to higher $Z_{eff}$. However, $IE_2(K) \gg IE_2(Cu)$ because removing the second electron from $K^+$ requires breaking a highly stable noble gas core ($3p^6$), whereas $Cu^+$ only has a pseudo-noble gas core ($3d^{10}$).
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