Question

In spite of having less electron affinity than chlorine, fluorine is the strongest oxidizing agent among the halogens, The most important reason for this phenomenon is :

• A. lower bond dissociation energy of $F_2$ than $C{l}_2$
• B. much lower heat of hydration of $F^{-}\text{than}C{l}^{-}$
• C. much greater heat of hydration of $F^{-}\text{than}C{l}^{-}$
• D. greater electronegativity of $F$ than $Cl$

Answer 1

The correct option is C much greater heat of hydration of $F^{-}\text{than}C{l}^{-}$

Inspite of having less electron affinity than chlorine, fluorine is the strongest oxidising agent among the halogens. The most important reason for this phenomenon is much greater heat of hydration of $F^{-}$ than $C{l}^{-}$ which compensates for the lower electron affinity of $F$ than of $Cl$.
Hence option (c) is correct.