Chapter 22, Problem 22.1P

Which element has more nonmetallic character:Cl or Sb?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The element which is more non-metallic from Cl and Sb is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The non-metallic character of a given element can be defined as its tendency to accept electrons during a given chemical reaction.

Answer to Problem 22.1P

Cl will be more non-metallic in nature as compared to Sb.

Explanation of Solution

The non-metallic character of a given element is related to its tendency to accept electrons.

The electron affinity of a given atom can be defined as the amount of energy which is released when an electron is added to an atom in neutral state and is present in its gaseous form.

The electron affinity is said to increase as one moves from left to right across the period due to decrease in the atomic radius while the electron affinity decreases as one moves down the group due to increase in the atomic radius.

Chlorine is present in the 3rd period and 17^th group of the periodic table while antimony belongs to the 5^th period and the 15^th group of the modern periodic table.

Therefore, the electron affinity of chlorine will be more than that of Antimony. Hence, the tendency to accept electrons will be more in case of chlorine than antimony. Thus, chlorine is more non-metallic in nature than antimony.

Conclusion

The electron affinity of a given atom can be defined as the amount of energy which is released when an electron is added to an atom in neutral state and is present in its gaseous form.