NEETChemistryClassification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
Why do noble gases have large positive electron gain enthalpies?
Options
- AThey have small atomic sizes.
- BThey have low electron-electron repulsion.
- CThey have stable noble gas electronic configurations.
- DThey have to enter the next higher principal quantum level.
Correct answer
D. They have to enter the next higher principal quantum level.
Step-by-step solution
Noble gases have large positive electron gain enthalpies because the added electron has to enter the next higher principal quantum level, leading to a very unstable electronic configuration.