The EA₂ of an oxygen atom is positive, even though its EA₁ is negative. Why does this change of sign occur? Which other elements exhibit a positive EA₂? Explain.

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Chemistry

Amiah Waller

24 January, 12:29

The EA₂ of an oxygen atom is positive, even though its EA₁ is negative. Why does this change of sign occur? Which other elements exhibit a positive EA₂? Explain.

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Reese · Answer 1

Electron affinity of 7th group elements whose electron affinity of their anionic forms (EA2) are higher than the electron affinity of their neutral form (EA1). This is because their anionic forms are more stable than their neutral form. If the reaction is endothermic, change in the energy is negative this means that electron affinity is positive. And vice versa for negative electron affinity.