[helenee]

Here's what the problem says (the table is in the photo):

Each response below is a sequential list of the first 10 ionisation energies for different neutral elements. Arrange the rows in the most probable sequence they will be found in the periodic table.

I know that the ionisation energy increases across a period (bc there are more protons that would pull in the electrons more as we move towards the right end of the periodic table). However, I'm not quite sure how to move on from that point to actually get to an answer — could someone help me please?

[mjc123]

Look at where you get a very big increase from one IE to the next. What does that tell you about the element's position in the periodic table?

[helenee]

So the earlier you get a big increase, the closer it is to the left end of the periodic table, right?

I think that makes sense now. Thank you!