JEE Advanced Chemistry question

Electron affinity is positive, when

(A)O changes into O−
(B)O− changes into O2−Correct
(C)O changes into O+
(D)Electron affinity is always negative

Answer: (B)

Solution

Adding the first electron to a neutral oxygen atom (O → O⁻) is energetically favourable (exothermic), so the first electron affinity is negative, ruling out (a). Adding a second electron to the already negatively-charged O⁻ ion (O⁻ → O²⁻), however, must overcome strong electrostatic repulsion from

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Question ID VK-159396