Which of the following describes the trends in electronegativity?It decreases across periods but increases down groupsIt increases across periods but decreases down groupsIt decreases across periods and down groupsIt increases across periods and down groups
Question
Which of the following describes the trends in electronegativity?It decreases across periods but increases down groupsIt increases across periods but decreases down groupsIt decreases across periods and down groupsIt increases across periods and down groups
Solution
The correct trend in electronegativity is: It increases across periods but decreases down groups.
Here's why:
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Electronegativity is the measure of the ability of an atom to attract electrons towards itself in a chemical bond.
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Across a period in the periodic table (left to right), the number of protons in the nucleus increases. This increases the positive charge of the nucleus which attracts the electrons more strongly. As a result, electronegativity increases.
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Down a group in the periodic table (top to bottom), the number of energy levels (shells) increases. This increases the distance between the nucleus and the valence electrons (the outermost electrons involved in bonding). The increase in distance decreases the attraction between the nucleus and the valence electrons, so electronegativity decreases.
Similar Questions
Which statement describes a periodic trend of electronegativity?A.Electronegativity increases from left to right across a period.B.Electronegativity increases from top to bottom of a group.C.Electronegativity remains the same within a period.D.Electronegativity increases from right to left across a period.SUBMITarrow_backPREVIOUS
Which of the following correctly outlines why electronegativity increases across a period?There are more electrons and more repulsion between electronsThe level of electron shielding increases There is an increase in nuclear charge and a decrease in the atomic radiusThe atomic radius decreasesReport feedbackPrevious
Which of the following set of elements shows an order of increasing electronegativity trend?
Deduce which trends are seen as you move down a group in the periodic table.I. increase ionic radiusII. increase in atomic radiusIII. increase in ionisation energyIV. increase in electronegativity
What trend does electronegativity follow, going down the periodic table?A.Electronegativity decreases because the size of the nucleus is bigger.B.Electronegativity decreases because the valence electrons are farther from the nucleus.C.Electronegativity increases because there are more valence electrons in the atom.D.Electronegativity increases because there are more total electrons in the atom.SUBMITarrow_backPREVIOUS
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