Question

The electron affinity for the inert gases is :
(A) Zero
(B) High
(C) Negative
(D) Positive

Answer 1

Firstly we should be clear what exactly is the electron affinity and what does it means. Now after then we are able to get the answer for the given problem which is because of the fully filled outermost shell.

Complete step-by-step answer: Firstly we should be aware that the question is regarding the field of electron affinity for the inert gases as the element.
We can say that the electron affinity of an atom or molecule can be defined as the amount of energy that would be released when an electron is attached to a neutral atom or molecule in the gaseous state to form a negative ion.
We should also observe that this is not the same as the enthalpy change of electron capture ionization. This is what is defined as negative in the measurement when the energy is released. In other words, this enthalpy change and the electron affinity differ by a negative sign.
Inert gases in the group $18$ , have stable fully filled outermost (valence) shells. Therefore, their affinity to add electrons is zero.

Therefore the correct option would be option (A), Zero.

Note: To use electron affinities properly, it is essential to keep track of signs. For any reaction that releases energy, the change $\Delta E$ in total energy has a negative value and the reaction is called an exothermic process. Electron capture for almost all non-noble gas atoms involves the release of energy[4] and thus are exothermic.