An electron loses potential energy when it
A)shifts to a less electronegative atom.
B)shifts to a more electronegative atom.
C)increases its kinetic energy.
D)increases its activity as an oxidizing agent.
E)ᵐᵒᵛᵉˢ ᶠᵃʳᵗʰᵉʳ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵘᶜˡᵉᵘˢ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵗᵒᵐ.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When an electron shifts to a more electronegative atom, it is closer to the nucleus and therefore has less potential energy. This difference in potential energy is converted to kinetic energy, which the electron gains. Therefore, the electron loses potential energy.

An Electron Loses Potential Energy When It