Question:

The third ionization enthalpy is minimum for :

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The third ionisation removes an electron from \(M^{2+}\); it is easiest when this leads to a stable half-filled \(d^5\) configuration.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • Ni
  • Co
  • Mn
  • Fe
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Third ionisation: \(M^{2+}\to M^{3+}+e^-\).
Mn\(^{2+}\): \(3d^5\) (half-filled, very stable), so removing a further electron is hard.
Fe\(^{2+}\): \(3d^6\to\) Fe\(^{3+}\): \(3d^5\), the loss gives a stable half-filled configuration, so it is easiest.
Co\(^{2+}\) (\(3d^7\)) and Ni\(^{2+}\) (\(3d^8\)) do not gain such stability and have higher values.
Approximate values (kJ/mol): Mn 3248, Fe 2957, Co 3232, Ni 3395. Fe is minimum.
Answer: (4) Fe
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