Define Ionization Enthalpy What Are Its Units What Is The Principle Of Its Measurement

Ionization Enthalpy is the energy required to remove an electron from an isolated gaseous atom or ion, resulting in the formation of a positively charged ion. It is also known as ionization energy or ionization potential.

Units: Ionization enthalpy is typically measured in joules per mole (J/mol) or its subunit, kilojoules per mole (kJ/mol).

Principle of Measurement: The measurement of ionization enthalpy is based on the principle of electron removal from an atom.

Here’s how it works:

1. An isolated gaseous atom of the element under study is selected.
2. A high-energy electromagnetic radiation source, such as a laser or an electron beam, is used to bombard the atom.
3. Electrons in the atom absorb energy from the radiation and become excited, temporarily moving to higher energy levels or orbitals.
4. Further bombardment with sufficient energy results in the removal of an electron from the atom.
5. The energy required to remove the electron completely from the atom is the ionization enthalpy and can be measured using specialized instruments.

This process helps determine the energy needed to overcome the electrostatic attraction between the positively charged nucleus and the negatively charged electron, providing valuable information about the element’s chemical behavior and reactivity