How would you explain the fact that the | Class 11 Chemistry Chapter Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties, Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 3 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 17:

How would you explain the fact that the first ionization enthalpy of sodium is lower than that of magnesium but its second ionization enthalpy is higher than that of magnesium?

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 17:

How would you explain the fact that the first ionization enthalpy of sodium is lower than that of magnesium but its second ionization enthalpy is higher than that of magnesium?

Answer:

Sodium is the 2nd member of group I (alkali metals) & magnesium is the 2nd member of group II (alkaline earth metals). The first ionization enthalpy of sodium is more than that of magnesium. This is primarily because  of smaller size & more symmetrical electronic configuration.For these reasons, the energy required to remove an electron from magnesium is more than the energy required in sodium. Hence, the first ionization enthalpy of sodium is lower than that of magnesium.

However, the second ionization enthalpy of sodium is higher than that of magnesium. This is because after losing 1  electron, sodium attains the stable noble gas configuration of neon (1s22s22p6) . On the other hand, magnesium, after losing 1 electron still has one electron in the 3s-orbital(1s2 2s22p63s1). In order to attain the stable noble gas configuration, it still has to lose one more electron. Thus, the energy required to remove the second electron in case of sodium is much higher than that required in case of magnesium. Hence, the second ionization enthalpy of sodium is higher than that of magnesium.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

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  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
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Comments

  • Pushpraj Choudhary
  • Jul 25, 2018

Krtnkk explained


  • Mohit bansfor
  • Mar 01, 2018

Nice explanation but first line


  • Keerthanagadha
  • Oct 21, 2017

Where is my previous comment


  • Keerthanagadha
  • Oct 21, 2017

Tks for the answer sir. Plzz crct the first line in the second paragraph and republish it


  • Saurabh Pandey
  • Sep 09, 2017

Thank you but explain me please in terms of penetration effect


  • Ahi
  • Sep 05, 2017

1st line is wrong.... Please correct it.


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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 17: How would you explain the fact that the first ionization enthalpy of sodium is lower than that of ma....

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