Electron Gain Enthalpy and Electronegativity — Predicted 2026

AI-Predicted Question Angles for UPSC 2026

Based on trend analysis, current affairs, and recurring themes in Electron Gain Enthalpy and Electronegativity.

Comparative EGE and EN with justification

high

NEET frequently tests the ability to compare periodic properties. A question might ask to arrange a set of 4-5 elements (e.g., O, S, F, Cl, N) in increasing order of EGE or EN, or to identify the element with the highest/lowest value. The justification for the order, especially involving exceptions like F vs. Cl EGE, will be key. This tests both knowledge of trends and understanding of underlying reasons.

Conceptual question on factors influencing EGE/EN

medium

A question might present a scenario or ask which factor (e.g., effective nuclear charge, atomic size, electronic configuration, hybridization) is most responsible for a particular observation related to EGE or EN. This requires a deeper understanding of how these atomic parameters translate into the observed periodic properties, moving beyond simple trend memorization.

Application of Electronegativity in bond character

medium

While directly from the 'Chemical Bonding' chapter, the concept of electronegativity difference determining bond polarity (ionic vs. covalent character) is a direct application. A question might provide two elements and ask about the nature of the bond formed between them based on their relative electronegativities, or ask to identify the most polar bond in a given set of molecules. This links periodic trends to bonding principles.

Successive Electron Gain Enthalpies

low

A question specifically focusing on the sign and reason for the second or third electron gain enthalpy (e.g., for oxygen or nitrogen) could appear. While less frequent than general trends, it's a distinct conceptual point that tests understanding of electrostatic repulsion and energy changes in ion formation. It's a good differentiator for students with deeper conceptual clarity.