Question

which best explains why ionization energy tends to decrease from the top to the bottom of a group? the number of orbitals decreases. the number of neutrons decreases. electrons get closer to the nucleus. electrons get farther from the nucleus.

Explanation:

Ionization energy is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom. As you move from the top to the bottom of a group in the periodic table, the number of electron - shells increases. This causes the outermost electrons to be farther from the nucleus. The attractive force between the nucleus and the outermost electrons weakens, making it easier to remove an electron and thus decreasing the ionization energy.

Answer:

Electrons get farther from the nucleus.