Question

Amriddin

(16) SEP Develop and Use Models: Why do the noble gasses have relatively lo
electron affinities? Use the models of Fluorine and Neon to support your answer

Answer 1

The noble gases have relatively low electron affinities due to their stable electron configurations. This stability makes them less likely to attract additional electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

The noble gases have relatively low electron affinities due to their stable electron configurations. Noble gases have full valence electron shells, which means they have achieved a stable electron configuration similar to the nearest noble gas element. This stability makes them less likely to attract additional electrons.

For example, let's take a look at fluorine (a non-noble gas) and neon (a noble gas). Fluorine has atomic number 9 and its electron configuration is 1s2 2s2 2p5. It is one electron away from achieving a full valence shell. On the other hand, neon has atomic number 10 and its electron configuration is 1s2 2s2 2p6. Neon has a full valence shell and doesn't need any additional electrons to achieve stability. This difference in electron configuration explains why fluorine has a higher electron affinity compared to neon.

Learn more about Electron affinities of noble gases