Which of the ions in the table below would have the largest value of enthalpy of hydration?
Ionic radius in nm Charge of ion

Options

A. 0.0065 + 2
B. `0.095 +1
C. 0.135 +2
D. 0.181 +1

Answer

A

Explanation

The process of hydration involves an electrostatic interaction between ions and polar water molecules. The enthalpy of hydration is directly proportional to the charge density of the ion. Thus, greater the charge and smaller the size of the ion, greater is the enthalpy of hydration.