Why does ionization take energy?

Answer 1

The first electrons to be removed (1st ionization energy) are the ones that are farthest from the nucleus, and so are not held as tightly (further from the positive protons). As you move closer to the nucleus (2nd and 3rd ionization energies), it becomes harder (more energy) to remove them because they are held more tightly by the protons.

Answer 2

The first electrons to be removed (1st ionization energy) are the ones that are farthest from the nucleus, and so are not held as tightly (further from the positive protons). As you move closer to the nucleus (2nd and 3rd ionization energies), it becomes harder (more energy) to remove them because they are held more tightly by the protons.

Answer 3

Ionization requires energy because it involves removing an electron from an atom or molecule. This process disrupts the stability of the atom or molecule's electron configuration, requiring energy input to overcome the attractive forces between the electron and the nucleus.

Answer 4

It is needed to give energy in order to produce ion. If the energy would be negative, that would mean that the elements would be changing into ions spontaneously.

Answer 5

the electrons are attracted to the nucleus by the charge on the protons to overcome the force holding the electron in an atom one would need to add energy