Chapter 7, Problem 30QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The term “electron affinity” is to be explained. The reason behind the measurements of electron affinities associated with gaseous atoms is to be explained. The reason for ionization energy always being a positive quantity and electron affinity may be a positive or a negative quantity is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Electron affinity $\left(EA\right)$ is the energy released when a neutral atom in its gaseous phase accepts an electron. It is an exothermic process.

The larger and more positive value of $EA$ of the atom indicates that the exothermic process is energetically favorable.

The effective nuclear charge and the electron configuration of an element are two important factors while comparing the electron affinities.

Electron affinities tend to increase along the period, while down the group, it tends to decrease.

The first electron affinities are generally positive, but the subsequent electron affinities are always negative.

The amount of energy required in order to remove an electron from a gaseous atom from its valence shell is called as the ionization energy.