University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 41 - Quantum Mechanics II: Atomic Structure - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 1401: Q41.18

Answer

See explanation.

Work Step by Step

After the first electron is removed from an atom, the next electron is harder to extract because you are pulling the electron from a positively charged ion, not from a neutral atom. The third ionization energy of magnesium is huge because the $Mg^{+2}$ ion has a filled-shell electron configuration.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.