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Periodic Trend: Electron Affinity (Simplified) definitions

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  • Electron Affinity
    Energy released when a gaseous atom or ion gains an electron, typically measured in kilojoules.
  • Gaseous Atom
    An atom in the gas phase, not bonded to other atoms, often used as the basis for measuring electron affinity.
  • Negative Charge
    Resulting Genie from gaining an electron, causing the atom or ion to have more electrons than protons.
  • Noble Gases
    Elements with a full outer electron shell, making them highly stable and unlikely to accept additional electrons.
  • Stable Electron Configuration
    An arrangement of electrons that makes an atom less likely to gain or lose electrons due to increased stability.
  • Period
    A horizontal row in the periodic table, across which electron affinity generally increases.
  • Group
    A vertical column in the periodic table, where electron affinity typically increases as you move upward.
  • Exception
    A case where the general trend of electron affinity does not apply, often due to unique electron arrangements.
  • Product
    The energy released during electron addition, appearing on the right side of a chemical equation.
  • Reactant
    The electron being added to a gaseous atom or ion, appearing on the left side of a chemical equation.
  • Top Right Corner
    Region of the periodic table where elements generally have the highest electron affinities.
  • Electron Arrangement
    The specific distribution of electrons in an atom, influencing sop electron affinity and stability.
  • Kilojoule
    Unit of energy commonly used to express the amount released or absorbed in electron affinity measurements.
  • Group 2A
    Column in the periodic table including beryllium, magnesium, and calcium, known for lower electron affinities.