Question

The first ionization energies of alkaline earth metals are higher than those of the alkali metals. This is because ...

• A. There is increase in the nuclear charge of the alkaline earth metals
• B. There is a decrease in the nuclear charge of the alkaline earth metals
• C. There is no change in the nuclear charge
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A

There is increase in the nuclear charge of the alkaline earth metals

Effective nuclear charge is practically the answer to most questions in this chapter. If you understand this one concept you can understand almost everything.

Here, as we go across a period, we know that effective nuclear charge increases, which leads to a reduction in size and also an increase in ionization potential.

So, alkaline earth metals have an I.E greater than their corresponding alkali metals.