Question
In a group, a particular element has the lowest ionization potential; does it ionize most easily or least easily? Explain with example.

Answer

The particular with lowest ionization potential in a group will ionize most easily.
For example among elements of group $1$ Value of ionization potential is:
 
Element Li Na K Rb Cs
Ionization
energy
$KJ mol^{-1}$
$520$ $496$ $419$ $403$ $375$

Cesium (Cs) has lowest ionization potential value which is $375 KJmol^{-1}$ So it will ionize most easily.
Concept Insight :
Lesser is the ionization potential value; more easily is the tendency to form a cation.
 

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