Which of the following best describes what a more negative electron affinity means for an element?

• A. The atom requires more energy to lose an electron.
• B. The atom has a larger atomic radius.
• C. The atom releases more energy when gaining an electron.
• D. The atom is less likely to gain an electron.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electron affinity refers to the amount of energy released or absorbed when an atom gains an electron.
2. Recognize that a more negative electron affinity value means the atom releases energy upon gaining an electron, indicating a favorable process.
3. Recall that if an atom releases more energy when gaining an electron, it is more likely to attract and accept that electron.
4. Note that electron affinity is not directly related to the energy required to lose an electron (which is ionization energy) or to the atomic radius.
5. Conclude that a more negative electron affinity means the atom releases more energy when gaining an electron, making this the best description.