Questions: In each pair, choose the atom which has the highest first ionization energy based on its position in the Periodic Table. Mg or S A Mg B S

Transcript text: In each pair, choose the atom which has the highest first ionization energy based on its position in the Periodic Table. Mg or S A Mg B S

Solution

Solution Steps

Step 1: Understanding Ionization Energy

Ionization energy is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom in its gaseous state. Generally, ionization energy increases across a period from left to right and decreases down a group in the Periodic Table.

Step 2: Analyzing the Position of Mg and S

Magnesium (Mg) is located in Group 2 and Period 3 of the Periodic Table.
Sulfur (S) is located in Group 16 and Period 3 of the Periodic Table.

Step 3: Comparing Ionization Energies

Since both Mg and S are in the same period, we compare their positions across the period. Ionization energy increases from left to right across a period due to increasing nuclear charge, which attracts electrons more strongly.