Question

12/35
ionization energy is ....
a measure of the ability of an atom to attract electrons
the energy required to add an electron to an atom
how much energy it takes to remove an electron from an atom
the energy required to shield the outer electrons from the nucleus

Explanation:

To determine the correct definition of ionization energy, we analyze each option:

• The first option describes electronegativity, not ionization energy.
• The second option describes electron affinity (energy to add an electron), not ionization energy.
• The third option matches the definition of ionization energy, which is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom.
• The fourth option describes shielding effect, not ionization energy.

Answer:

C. how much energy it takes to remove an electron from an atom (assuming the options are labeled A, B, C, D with A being the first, B the second, C the third, D the fourth)