Question

As each electron is removed, one at a time, from an atom of aluminum, more ionization energy is required. Between which two successive ionization energies would you expect the greatest difference (largest change in value)? Explain your answer in terms of attraction, repulsion, and electron arrangement.

Answer 1

The reason for such a condition is that the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom have the least attraction from the nucleus of the atom. This is because it is the farthest from the nucleus. As electrons are removed from inner shells, it requires more energy because the attraction force of the nucleus is greater. I hope the answer has helped you.

Answer 2

When electrons  are removed one at a time, it is expected that the electron at the outermost shell that is farthest to the nucleus is the one that is easily removed among the others. This is because it experiences the least attraction from the nucleus. However, when the electron to be removed gets closer to the center, it is harder to remove then because of the stronger attraction caused by the distance.