Choose and then fill in the blank with the element that has the higher first ionization energyBr or I

To determine which element, Br or I, has the higher first ionization energy, we need to compare their positions on the periodic table.

First, let's locate Br and I on the periodic table. Br is located in Group 17, also known as the halogens, and I is located in Group 17 as well.

Moving from left to right across a period on the periodic table, the first ionization energy generally increases. This is because as you move across a period, the atomic radius decreases and the effective nuclear charge increases, making it more difficult to remove an electron.

Since Br is located to the left of I on the periodic table, it has a larger atomic radius. This means that the outermost electron in Br is further away from the nucleus compared to I. As a result, it is easier to remove an electron from Br than from I.

Therefore, Br has the lower first ionization energy compared to I.