Explain why the 2nd Electron aiffinity of Chlorine is Endothermic whilst the first electron affinity is exothermic

With the first electron affinity, the chlorine atom is one electron from a full octet ( and is a neutral species). When you add an electron to the chlorine, the negatively charged electron is electrostatically attracted to the positive charge of the nucleus. This results in the release of heat energy,(exothermic process) In contrast, when you are adding the second electron (2nd electron aiffinity) this time you are adding a negatively charged electron to a negative ion. This results in repulsion, you need to put in energy to overcome the repulsive forces, resulting in the process being endothermic

HC
Answered by Hayden C. Chemistry tutor

8529 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a chiral carbon and optical isomerism?


What is a formula of Potassium Sulfate?


Explain why Phenol is more reactive than Benzene with bromine water.


Explain what happens to a crystal of iodine when it is heated (5marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences