What is the general relationship between electron affinity and atomic radii for neutral atoms in their ground electronic states?
A)Electron affinity becomes more negative as radii increases.
B)Electron affinity becomes more negative as radii decreases.
C)Electron affinity becomes positive as radii decreases.
D)Electron affinity becomes positive as radii increases.
E)The two quantities are unrelated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In general, electron affinity increases (becomes more negative) as the atomic radius decreases. This is because the electrons in smaller atoms are held more tightly by the nucleus and are thus more stable, making it more difficult to add an additional electron. Larger atoms have more loosely held electrons, and adding an extra electron becomes easier.

What Is the General Relationship Between Electron Affinity and Atomic