Q28 / 170 · Manipal (MET) 2017 · Chemistry

The ionisation energy of nitrogen is larger than that of oxygen because

  • A
    the size of nitrogen atom is smaller
  • B
    there is greater attraction of electrons towards the nucleus
  • Correct answer
    C
    half-filled p-orbitals of nitrogen have extra stability
  • D
    None of the above

Solution

The ionisation energy of nitrogen is larger than that of oxygen because half-filled $p$-orbitals of nitrogen have extra stability while oxygen has $2 p^4$ electronic configuration of the outermost shell, hence its electrons can be easily removed.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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