For the second period elements the correct increasing order of first ionization enthalpy is :
- Li < B < Be < C < N < O < F < Ne
- Li < Be < B < C < O < N < F < Ne
- Li < B < Be < C < O < N < F < Ne
- Li < Be < B < C < N < O < F < Ne
Answer
(3) Li < B < Be < C < O < N < F < Ne
Solution
Across the second period the first ionisation enthalpy increases in general (nuclear charge increases), with two exceptions:
(i) Be (2s2) > B (2s2 2p1): the 2p electron of B is shielded by the 2s electrons and is more easily removed.
(ii) N (2p3) > O (2p4): N has a stable half-filled 2p subshell, while in O the paired electron is removed easily due to electron–electron repulsion.
∴ Li < B < Be < C < O < N < F < Ne
Answer: (3)