the electron affinity of nitrogen is lower (less negative) than that of both carbon and oxygen. This trend is best explained by noting that paired electrons have a _________ electrostatic repulsion than unpaired electrons, and adding an electron to C ________ require electrons to pair, while adding an electron to N ___________ require electrons to pair. Adding an electron to O ________ require electrons to pair; however, since O already has a paired electron, the additional repulsion is ____________ than for N.