Electron Affinity Calculator

Calculate electron attachment energies and photodetachment

About Electron Affinity

Electron affinity is the energy change when an electron is added to a neutral atom to form a negative ion. Positive values indicate energy is released (exothermic process).

Key Concepts:

  • X + e⁻ → X⁻ + EA
  • Photodetachment: X⁻ + hν → X + e⁻
  • Threshold: hν = EA
  • Used in Born-Haber cycle calculations

High EA Elements:

  • Chlorine: 3.61 eV (highest)
  • Fluorine: 3.40 eV
  • Bromine: 3.36 eV
  • Iodine: 3.06 eV