Photoelectron Spectroscopy

AP Chemistry· difficulty 3/5

A second photoelectron spectrum of a different third-period element shows four peaks at the following binding energies (MJ/mol): 1.45, 10.3, 13.5, 152, with relative heights of 1, 2, 6, 2.

Binding Energy (MJ/mol) 1.45 10.3 13.5 152 1 2 6 2

Which element is most consistent with the spectrum (peaks 1:2:6:2 = 11 electrons)?

  • A

    Magnesium (Mg)

  • B

    Aluminum (Al)

  • C

    Sodium (Na)

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  • D

    Neon (Ne)

Explanation

Total electrons = 1 + 2 + 6 + 2 = 11, which is sodium. The 1s peak is at 152, 2s at 13.5 with 2 e-, 2p at 10.3 with 6 e-, and 3s at 1.45 with 1 e-. Configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹ matches Na.

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