For Mg, the ionization energies are: IE₁ = 738, IE₂ = 1450, IE₃ = 7733 (kJ/mol). The huge jump from IE₂ to IE₃ shows
- A
All Group 2 elements have this pattern
- B
Mg is radioactive
- C
Random measurement error
- Dcheck_circle
After removing 2 valence (3s) electrons, the next electron must be removed from the inner shell, requiring much more energy
Explanation
Mg: [Ne] 3s². Removing both 3s electrons is "easy" (738 + 1450 kJ); removing a 3rd electron would tear into the [Ne] core → huge jump.