Q. Electron affinity is positive, when

A) O changes into $O^{-}$
B) $O^{-}$changes into $O^{2 -}$
C) O changes into $O^{+}$
D) Electron affinity is always negative
Explanation

(b)
Electron affinity is the energy change, when an electron is added. When $O^{-}$ changes into $O^{2 -}$ the electron affinity is positive i.e., change is endothermic. The reason is that $O^{-}$repels the incoming electron due to similar charge, hence, it needs energy to accept the electron. Hence, electron affinity is positive.

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.