JEE Main levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 2 of 3df067
The third ionisation enthalpy of Mn is distinctly higher than that of Fe because
AMn has a smaller atomic radius than Fe
Bremoval of the third electron from MnX2+ (3d5) disrupts a stable half-filled subshell, while for FeX2+ (3d6) it gives 3d5
CMn has more unpaired electrons than Fe in its neutral atom
Dthe effective nuclear charge of Fe is lower than that of Mn
Answer: B
MnX2+ is 3d5, a half-filled and exchange-stabilised arrangement, so extra energy is needed to remove a third electron. FeX2+ is 3d6, and losing one electron gives the stable 3d5FeX3+, so the third ionisation enthalpy of Fe is lower.