Question

Amongst the following elements (whose electronic configurations are given below) the one having the highest ionization is:

• A. $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^1$
• B. $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^3$
• C. $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^2$
• D. $\left[Ar\right]3d^{10},4s^{2}4p^3$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^3$

The highest ionization is possessed by the element which will not want to lose its electron.
Consider the options:
A)$\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^1$- Can lose the $p$ electron with relative ease.
B)$\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^3$- Since it is half filled, it is difficult to remove an electron. Hene ionization energy will be high in this case.
C) $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^2$- Can lose $p$ electron with relative ease.
D) $\left[Ar\right]3d^{10},4s^{2}4p^3$- Half filled. Difficult to remove electron.
Hence, we are left with two options, either $B$ or $D$. But in option $D$ the half filled configuration is in $4p$ whereas it is in $3p$ in option $B$. It is relatively easier to remove an electron from $4p$ than $3p$. Hence, option $B$ is the right answer.