Question

A neutral atom will have the lowest ionization potential when electronic configuration is:-

• A. $1s^1$
• B. $1s^2,2s^{2}2p^6$
• C. $1s^2,2s^{2}2p^6,3s^1$
• D. $1s^2,2s^{2}2p^2$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $1s^2,2s^{2}2p^6,3s^1$

Ionization potential decreases with increase of size, as the nuclear attraction force decreases and removal of an electron becomes easier. As can be seen from the option given, largest size will be for option (c). Hence, it will have lowest ionization potential.