Why will chlorine atom attract electron.

In summary, the question is about the force acting on an isolated electron near an isolated chlorine atom. The net coulombic attractive force towards the atom is 0 due to the atom's neutrality. However, as the electron gets closer, it will experience an attractive force towards the nucleus.
  • #1
sbhit2001
17
0

Homework Statement


Suppose that there is an isolated chlorine atom and there is an isolated electron in its surroundings. Then what force will act on the electron to pull it towards the atom.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know that chlorine will attract the electron but I am unable to identify what force will be acting on the electron to pull it towards the chlorine atom. I think that as the chlorine atom is neutral there will be 0 net coulombic attractive force towards the atom on the electron. Then how will the electron be attracted towards the nucleus? Please help me...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
From a large distance there is no net coulombic force an thus no attractive force. What do you think will happen as the electron gets much closer?
 

FAQ: Why will chlorine atom attract electron.

1. What is the atomic structure of chlorine?

Chlorine has an atomic number of 17, meaning it has 17 protons in its nucleus. It also has 17 electrons, arranged in 3 energy levels or shells. The first shell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, while the second and third shells can hold a maximum of 8 electrons each.

2. Why does chlorine need to attract an electron?

Chlorine is a halogen, meaning it has 7 electrons in its outermost energy level, one short of a full octet (8 electrons). Attracting one more electron will allow chlorine to achieve a stable octet, making it more stable and less reactive.

3. How does chlorine attract an electron?

Chlorine atoms have a high electronegativity, meaning they have a strong attraction for electrons. They can attract electrons through a process called electron transfer, where one atom loses an electron and the other gains it. Chlorine can also form covalent bonds with other atoms, sharing electrons to achieve a full octet.

4. What are the benefits of chlorine attracting an electron?

One of the main benefits of chlorine attracting an electron is the formation of ionic compounds. These compounds have strong electrostatic forces between the positively charged cation and the negatively charged anion, making them stable and useful in many applications, such as in salt and water purification.

5. Are there any risks associated with chlorine attracting an electron?

There are some risks associated with chlorine attracting an electron, particularly in the form of chlorine gas. Chlorine gas is toxic and can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. It is also a strong oxidizing agent, meaning it can react with other substances and cause damage to living organisms and the environment. However, in controlled and regulated environments, such as in water treatment, the benefits of chlorine far outweigh the risks.

Similar threads

If atoms are neutral, how do they share electrons
Replies
6
Views
2K
Chemistry Determining the positive and negative poles of a molecule
Replies
6
Views
5K
Why do atoms want to complete their shells?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Can Covalent Bonds form between atoms with no electrons?
Replies
1
Views
2K
Electropositivity - 2nd opinion needed
Replies
1
Views
1K
Born-Haber Cycle: Formation of a Chlorine Atom
Replies
2
Views
2K
What are the potential products of the reaction between acetylene and HOCl?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Chemistry Calculating Moles of Chlorine Atoms in 71g of MCl2
Replies
1
Views
1K
Equal electronegativities and covalent bond formation
Replies
4
Views
3K
Do metal atoms have dispersion force?
Replies
1
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top