17
QuizMultiple Choice

Atoms and the Periodic Table — Test

Question 17 • Physical Science

Which best explains why ionization energy tends to decrease from the top to the bottom of a group?

Answer
A
Electrons get closer to the nucleus.
B
The number of orbitals decreases.
C
The number of neutrons decreases.
D
Electrons get farther from the nucleus.

Explanation

Moving down a group adds electron shells, so the outermost electrons are farther from the nucleus and experience less attraction. Less energy is therefore needed to remove one, so ionization energy decreases. The best choice is “Electrons get farther from the nucleus.”

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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