The element having very high ionization enthalpy but zero electron affinity is : — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: A very high ionization enthalpy indicates a highly stable configuration, while zero or negative electron affinity indicates no tendency to gain an electron. Step 2: Helium has a highly stable, completely filled 1s2 duplet configuration, giving it the highest first ionization potential in the periodic table. Step 3: Because of this stable closed shell, Helium has no tendency to accept an electron, as any added electron would have to enter a higher-energy shell (2s). Thus, Helium has zero electron affinity, corresponding to option (c).