Question

Which trends are observed when the elements in Period 3 on the Periodic Table are considered in order of increasing atomic number?

(1) The atomic radius decreases, and the first ionization energy generally increases.
(2) The atomic radius decreases, and the first ionization energy generally decreases.
(3) The atomic radius increases, and the first ionization energy generally increases.
(4) The atomic radius increases, and the first ionization energy generally decreases.

Answer 1

The correct answer is option 1. The atomic radius decreases and the first ionization energy generally increases. This is predicted in the periodic table. In the periodic table, the atomic radius decrease as one moves across the table and the ionization energy increases.