Question

Consider the elements fluorine, calcium, and argon. The element with the most negative electron affinity is....

Please be descriptive and expalin how you got the answer.

Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

X(g) + e^- ---------------> X^- (g)                H= - ve

Fluorine valence shell contains 7 electrons. Fluorine gain one electron to get nearer inert gas electron configuration (neon). Fluorine easly gain electrons. so more amount of energy is released.

F(g) + e^- --------------> F^- (g)              H= - 328KJ

calcium valence shell contains 2 electrons.It has stable electron configuration because of S-orbital completely filled.Calcium not easly gain electrons.

Argon has stable electron configuration in it's valence shell. So it is not gain electron .Argon electron afffinity is zero.