Question

Among the following species, which has the maximum hydration energy?

• A. $O{H}^{-}$
• B. $N{H}_4^{+}$
• C. $F^{-}$
• D. $H^{+}$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $H^{+}$

Hydration energy is the amount of energy released upon solvation by water.

Hydration energy depends on the charge of the ion and the ionic radius. Higher the charge and smaller the size, greater the hydration energy. $H^{+}$ has the smallest size and hence has the maximum hydration energy among the four.