Question

Which of the following elements gain one electron more readily in comparison to other elements of the same group?

• A. S(g)
• B. N(g)
• C. O(g)
• D. Cl(g)

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (D)

The correct options are
A

S(g)

D

Cl(g)

Elements belonging to the third period gain electron more readily as compared to other elements of the same group. The other period-2 elements are too small in size to allow the addition of an electron to a gaseous atom easily. In other words, of the atomic size is small, the existing electrons experience significant mutual electron-electron repulsion and this means adding an extra electron is relatively more difficult as compared to the elements of the third period - $S$ and $Cl$.