Question

How does ionization energy change with atomic radius?

Answer 1

Ionization energy (IE) grows as atomic size decreases.

Explanation:

In an element we know that IE is the ability to pull the outermost electron away from the atom itself. As we know, electrons and protons are attracted by the electromagnetic force.

In closer proximity, this force is greater.

Therefore, the closer the electrons are to the protons, the higher the electric force, and thus the more energy needed to pull the electron away.