Question Detail
Question
Exceptions to this trend occur at __________ and half-full orbitals.
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Slight dips in the increasing trend occur after full (e.g., Be to B) and half-full (e.g., N to O) subshells because removing an electron from the new, higher-energy orbital (or from a paired electron) is slightly easier.
Hint
Stable configurations cause anomalies.