how is ionizaion energy different from electron affinity? use a chemical equation to clarify your definition.

Answer 1

The ionization energy is the energy required to release an electron from a neutral atom; i.e., to ionize it.
metal + energy ==> M^+ + e.
(Na ==> Na^+ + e)

The electron affinity is the energy released when an atom gains an electron.
A + e ==> A^-
(Cl + e ==> Cl^-)