Why can't I take 3s2 more stable than 3p4?

Question

Outermost electronic configuration of 4 elements A, B, C, D

A-3s2, B-3s23p1, C-3s23p3, D-3s23p4

Correct order of 1st ionization enthalpy

(a) B > A > C > D

(b) D > C > B > A

(c) C > D > B > A

(d) D > C > A > B

Answer 1

There are several factors that determine the IE.

Charge on the nucleus: the more protons, the greater the attraction and the higher the IE

Atomic radius: the larger the radius, the less the attraction and the lower the IE

Shielding: more electrons between nucleus and outer electrons, less the attraction and the lower the IE

3s2 3p4 has 16 protons vs 3s2 which has 11 protons. Higher IE for 3s2 3p4

3s2 3p4 is smaller than 3s2. Higher IE for 3sp 3p4

3s2 3p4 has 12 core electrons vs 3s2 which has 10 core electrons. Higher IE for 3s2.

Overall, the IE would be higher for 3s2 3p4 because the shielding loses out the the other factors.