Electronegativity

Definition

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold electrons in a chemical bond. It is a crucial concept for understanding the behavior of atoms in molecules and their reactivity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electronegativity values increase across a period from left to right on the periodic table.
2. Electronegativity values decrease down a group on the periodic table.
3. The most electronegative element is fluorine, with a value of 3.98 on the Pauling scale.
4. Electronegativity differences between atoms can determine bond type—large differences usually lead to ionic bonds, while smaller differences result in covalent bonds.
5. Polar covalent bonds are formed when there is an intermediate difference in electronegativity between two bonding atoms.

Review Questions

• What is the trend of electronegativity across a period and down a group in the periodic table?
• How does electronegativity influence the type of bond formed between two atoms?
• Which element has the highest electronegativity and what is its value?

Related terms

Ionization Energy: The energy required to remove an electron from an atom or ion.

Covalent Bond: A chemical bond formed by the sharing of one or more pairs of electrons between atoms.

Ionic Bond: A chemical bond formed through the electrical force between oppositely charged ions.