In comparing sodium and potassium, which of the following statements is true?
A) Sodium is more likely to lose an electron than potassium because sodium has a higher ionization energy than potassium.
B) Sodium is more likely to lose an electron than potassium because sodium has a lower ionization energy than potassium.
C) Sodium is less likely to lose an electron than potassium because sodium has a higher ionization energy than potassium.
D) Sodium is less likely to lose an electron than potassium because sodium has a lower ionization energy than potassium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sodium is less likely to lose an electron than potassium because sodium has a higher ionization energy than potassium. Ionization energy generally decreases down a group on the periodic table, making potassium, which is below sodium, have a lower ionization energy and thus more likely to lose an electron.

In Comparing Sodium and Potassium, Which of the Following Statements