Among the following, which has the maximum hydration energy? — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Hydration energy is directly proportional to the charge density of an ion. Step 2: The hydrogen ion (H^+) is a bare proton of incredibly small size (approximately 1.5 x 10^-15 m), which gives it an exceptionally high charge density compared to standard ions. Step 3: Because of this extraordinarily high charge density, H^+ undergoes extremely strong electrostatic interactions with water molecules, releasing the maximum hydration energy (option d).