Chapter 6, Problem 75A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The trend for electron affinity across the period is to be explained.

Concept Introduction :

Periodic trends are patterns found in the periodic table that show several facets of a particular element. The periodic trend is observed in ionization enthalpy, electron affinity, atomic sizes, etc.

Answer to Problem 75A

Increases across the period

Explanation of Solution

The ability of an atom to take an electron is measured by electron affinity. It measures the atom's change in energy when an electron is added to it. An atom is more likely to take an electron the more negative its electron affinity is.

Electron affinity increases across the period. This is because, across the period, there are more protons present. The atom's nucleus becomes increasingly positively charged as the number of protons increases. The stronger the positive charge, the more the atom's nucleus and electrons are drawn together. As a result, the nucleus can hold the electrons more tightly, enhancing electron affinity.

Thus, electron affinity increases across the period.