How do the periodic trends in metallic character compare to those for ionization energy? How do the periodic trends in metallic character compare to those for ionization energy? Metals tend to have higher ionization energies than nonmetals. Metals tend to have lower ionization energies than nonmetals. Metals and nonmetals tend to have the same ionization energies.

Chemistry · College · Mon Jan 18 2021

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Metals tend to have lower ionization energies than nonmetals. This is because metallic character generally increases down a group and decreases across a period on the periodic table.


Ionization Energy Trend: Ionization energy generally increases across a period from left to right and decreases down a group from top to bottom. Metals, found on the left side of the periodic table, typically have lower ionization energies compared to nonmetals on the right side.


Metallic Character Trend: Metallic character increases down a group and decreases across a period. Metals exhibit metallic character due to their tendency to lose electrons easily, leading to lower ionization energies. Nonmetals, on the other hand, tend to gain electrons and have higher ionization energies.


Therefore, the statement "Metals tend to have lower ionization energies than nonmetals" accurately reflects the periodic trends in metallic character and ionization energy.