Question Detail
Question
What happens to the ionization energy as atomic radius increases?
Correct Answer
Option A is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
As atomic radius increases, the valence electrons are farther from the nucleus and are more shielded by inner electrons. This reduces the electrostatic attraction between the nucleus and the outer electron, making it easier to remove, thus ionization energy decreases.
Hint
Think about the distance and shielding. A larger atom holds its outer electrons less tightly.