Question
Explain why there is a phenomenal decrease in ionization enthalpy from carbon to silicon.

Answer

Carbon is the first element of group $14$ and thus, it has the smallest atomic size.
The ionization enthalpy of carbon $(1086 \ kJ mol^{-1})$ is very high due to its small atomic size $(77 \ pm)$ and high electronegativity $(2.5).$
However, the ionization enthalpy of silicon $(786 \ kJ mol^{-1})$ decreases phenomenally due to the increase in its atomic size $(118 \ pm)$ and low electronegativity $(1.8).$

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