Question:

Identify the element which has highest second ionization enthalpy:

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Second ionization enthalpy depends on effective nuclear charge and atomic size. Higher nuclear charge and smaller size lead to higher ionization energy.
Updated On: Jun 26, 2026
  • Carbon
  • Phosphorus
  • Nitrogen
  • Oxygen
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall the trend of second ionization enthalpy.
Second ionization enthalpy increases across a period due to increasing nuclear charge and decreases down a group due to increasing atomic size.

Step 2: Analyze the elements given.
Among Carbon, Phosphorus, Nitrogen, and Oxygen, the elements are in periods 2 and 3. Oxygen (period 2, group 16) has the highest effective nuclear charge and smallest size, making its second ionization enthalpy the highest.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the element with the highest second ionization enthalpy is Oxygen.
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