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Question:

Following table shows the successive molar ionisation energy (kJ mol⁻¹) of five elements A to E.

Element Ionisation energy (kJ mol⁻¹)
1st 2nd
A 2080
B 500
C 740
D 580
E 420
Which two elements are most likely to be in the same group of the periodic table?

C and D

B and E

D and E

B and D

Solution:

On comparing the second ionization energy of B and E, we see that they are exceptionally high. This suggests that these elements have only one electron in their outermost shell. After losing this electron, they achieve a stable noble gas configuration. Therefore, they are likely to be in the same group, which is the first group, i.e., alkali metals.