Which of the following has the highest electron affinity?
Show Hint
Electron affinity is generally high for non-metals in the top right of the periodic table (except noble gases), with chlorine having the highest value.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Electron affinity is the energy released when an electron is added to a neutral atom in the gaseous state. Anions have a negative electron affinity (energy is required to add an electron). Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
• K: A metal with low electron affinity.
• O\(^-\): Adding an electron to an anion is unfavorable (positive electron affinity value).
• F\(^-\): Adding an electron to F\(^-\) is highly unfavorable.
• O: Oxygen has a high electron affinity (-141 kJ/mol) due to its small size and high nuclear charge. It is second only to chlorine in the periodic table.
Neutral oxygen has a higher tendency to accept an electron compared to the others listed. Step 3: Final Answer:
Oxygen (O) has the highest electron affinity among the given options, which corresponds to option (D).