Fluorine has a low electron gain enthalpy compared to chlorine, yet it is a more powerful oxidant. Explain why?
aditya kashyap
12 Years agoGrade upto college level
1 Answer
Sunil Kumar FP
11 Years ago
Main reason is the very high hydration enthalpy of the fluoride ion. That is because the ion is very small. There is a very strong attraction between the fluoride ions and water molecules. The stronger the attraction, the more heat is evolved when the hydrated ions are formed.