What is electron gain enthalpy // what is electron gain enthalpy in Chemistry class 11
⚛️ Electron Gain Enthalpy (ΔegH)
Electron gain enthalpy is the amount of energy released or absorbed when an electron is added to an isolated gaseous atom to form a negative ion.
🔬 Definition:
"Electron gain enthalpy is the enthalpy change when one mole of electrons is added to one mole of isolated gaseous atoms."
📘 General Reaction:
X_{(g)} + e^- \rightarrow X^-_{(g)} \quad \Delta_{eg}H
- = isolated gaseous atom
- = anion formed
- = added electron
- = electron gain enthalpy
🔥 Key Points:
- Negative electron gain enthalpy: Energy is released (exothermic). Most nonmetals show this behavior.
Example: Chlorine
Cl_{(g)} + e^- \rightarrow Cl^-_{(g)} \quad \Delta_{eg}H = -349 \text{ kJ/mol}
- Positive electron gain enthalpy: Energy is absorbed (endothermic). Some elements (like noble gases or N) show this.
Example: Nitrogen, Neon
📊 Trends in Periodic Table:
-
Across a Period (→):
Electron gain enthalpy becomes more negative (more energy released) due to increasing nuclear charge. -
Down a Group (↓):
Becomes less negative (less energy released) due to increased atomic size and electron shielding.
🧠 Why Important?
- Helps to understand reactivity of nonmetals
- Explains formation of anions (e.g., Cl⁻, O²⁻)
- Useful in calculating electron affinity and chemical behavior
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