Chemistry

Question Analysis
This question tests the understanding of the periodic trend in ionization energy down a group.

Key Concept Explanation
Ionization energy generally decreases down a group due to the increasing atomic radius, which weakens the nuclear attraction for the valence electrons.

Step-by-step Solution
1. Identify the group: All options are in Group 16 (chalcogens).
2. Recall the general group trend for ionization energy: Decreases down the group (O > S > Se > Te).
3. Check for exceptions: O has lower ionization energy than S (violates the general trend), while S > Se and Se > Te follow the general tr...