Question:

The correct order of electron gain enthalpy (\( - \) ve value) is :

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Electron gain enthalpy generally becomes less negative down a group, but the very small 2p subshell of O makes it less negative than S.
Updated On: Oct 31, 2026
  • O > S > Se > Te
  • O < S < Se < Te
  • O < S > Se > Te
  • O < S > Se < Te
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Down group 16 the magnitude of electron gain enthalpy falls with increasing size: S > Se > Te.
Step 2: Oxygen is anomalous: its very small size and strong inter-electronic repulsion in the compact 2p subshell make its \(\Delta_{eg}H\) less negative than that of S.
Step 3: Approximate values (kJ mol\(-1\)): O \(-\)141, S \(-\)200, Se \(-\)195, Te \(-\)190. Order: O < S > Se > Te.
Answer: (C) O < S > Se > Te
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