For every element, less energy is needed to remove an electron from a neutral atom than is needed to remove another electron from the resultant ion. Explain why..
2007-02-23 22:45:33 · 2 answers · asked by enigma 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
When you remove one electron you will have more + than - in the ion. This means that each remaining electron will feel more of a "pull" from the protons in the nucleus. You will need to use more energy to remove the second electron to overcome this "pull" from the nucleus.
2007-02-23 23:02:48 · answer #1 · answered by physandchemteach 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Pulling the second electron away means removing a negative particle from an ion which is now positive, rather than an atom which is neutral. So there is much more force of attraction for the second one!
2007-02-24 06:53:26 · answer #2 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋