Chemistry Chemical Bonding NUMS 2019
PMDC Verified Question 77 of 102
The shielding effect of inner electron is responsible for:
A
Decreasing ionization energy
B
Having no effect on ionization energy
C
Increasing ionization energy
D
Increasing electronegativity
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: Decreasing ionization energy
Concept:

Shielding effect occurs when inner shell electrons repel outer shell electrons, partially blocking the attractive pull of the positive nucleus.

Formula:

$$ Z_{\text{eff}} = Z - S $$

Solution:

  • As the number of inner electron shells increases (moving down a group), the shielding effect becomes stronger.


  • This reduces the effective nuclear charge (\( Z_{\text{eff}} \)) felt by the outermost valence electrons.


  • Because they are held less tightly, less energy is required to remove them, resulting in a decreased ionization energy.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option C & Option D: Shielding makes electrons easier to lose, which decreases ionization energy and electronegativity, rather than increasing them.

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