The first ionization energy of magnesium is smaller as compared to that of elements and , but higher than that of . The elements and , respectively are:
- (A)argon, chlorine and sodium✓ Correct
- (B)chlorine, lithium and sodium
- (C)neon, sodium and chlorine
- (D)argon, lithium and sodium
Answer: (A)
Solution
Ionisation energy rises from left to right across a period and falls down a group. Sodium is the element immediately preceding magnesium in the third period and gives up its single electron more easily, so its ionisation energy lies below that of magnesium. Chlorine lies further to the right in the same period and argon closes it with a filled shell, so both demand more energy than magnesium, argon most of all. The elements are argon, chlorine and sodium.
JEE Main · 2021 · 18 Mar 2021 · Shift 2 · Single correct option