Which of the elements Na, Mg, Si, P would have the greatest difference between the first and the second ionization enthalpies. Briefly explain your answer
Among Na, Mg, Si, P, Na is an alkali metal. It has only one electron in the valence shell. Therefore, its IE1 is low: However, after the removal of the first electron, it acquires a Neon gas configuration i.e., Na+ (1s2, 2s2 2p6). Therefore its IE2 is expected to be very high. Consequently, the difference in IE1 and IE2 comes to be greatest in the case of Na.
