MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

The formation of an ionic bond involves the transfer of electrons from a metal atom to a non-metal atom. The metal atom loses an electron to form a cation. This process requires energy, which is the ionization enthalpy. A lower ionization enthalpy means the metal can easily lose its valence electrons, favoring cation formation. The non-metal atom gains an electron to form an anion. This process releases energy, which is measured as the electron gain enthalpy. A high negative value of electron gain enthalpy indicates that a large amount of energy is released, making the formation of the anion highly favorable. Therefore, the favorable conditions for the formation of an ionic bond are a low ionization enthalpy of the metal and a high negative value of electron gain enthalpy of the non-metal. Answer: Low ionization enthalpy of metal and high negative value of electron gain enthalpy of non metal.