Chapter 11, Problem 72A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The term electronegativity needs to be explained. The change in electronegativity across a row of representative elements needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Electronegativity is defined as an ability of an atom of bonded element to attract electron pairs towards itself.

Answer to Problem 72A

The measurement of attraction of an atom for bonding electrons in molecules is called as electronegativity and electronegativity increases from left to right in periodic table.

Explanation of Solution

• Electronegativity is defined as the ability of an atom to attract its bonding electrons to itself.
• In a periodic table when move from left to right, the electronegativity of elements increases. The reason for increase in electronegativity is that in the same period, the number of protons increases and atomic size decreases from left to right due to which the positively charged nucleus attracts the bonding electrons more towards itself and hence, the electronegativity increases from left to right.