Which of the following represents the correct order of increasing electron gain enthalpy with negative sign for the elements O, S, F and Cl ?
- Cl < F < O < S
- O < S < F < Cl
- F < S < O < Cl
- S < O < Cl < F
Answer
(2) O < S < F < Cl
Solution
Halogens have the most negative electron gain enthalpies; group 16 elements have less negative values.
As per NCERT, the electron gain enthalpy of O or F is less negative than that of the succeeding element (S or Cl), because the added electron goes to the small n = 2 shell and suffers strong repulsion from the other electrons there.
Values ( kJ mol-1): O = −141, S = −200, F = −328, Cl = −349
∴ Increasing order of negative electron gain enthalpy: O < S < F < Cl
Answer: (2)