Group 2

Question 1

describe the trend in first ionisation energy as we go down group 2.

Answer 1

decreases. This is because the increased distance between the nucleus outer electron and nucleus, and shielding from the nucelus, outweighs the increase in nuclear charge, which means it is easier for the elctron to break free.

Question 1

Describe the trend in atomic radius down group 2.

Answer 1

The atomic radius increases down group 2, This is because the outer electrons are now on a new shell, which is much further away from the nucleus.