Question

In the periodic each period begins with a metal which is, (a) less electropositive (b) less electronegative (c) more electropositive (d) more electronegative

Answer 1

Answer:

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of the attraction of an atom for bonding electrons in molecules compared to that of other atoms. The electronegativity values devised by Linus Pauling, an American chemist, are dimensionless quantities that range from slightly less than one for the alkali metals to a maximum of four for fluorine. Large electronegativity values indicate a stronger attraction for electrons than small electronegativity values.

Electronegativities increase from left to right across the periodic table (Figure 1.3). Elements on the left of the periodic table have low electronegativities and are often called electropositive elements. The order of electronegativities F > O > N > C is an important property that we will use to explain the chemical properties of organic compounds. Electronegativities decrease from top to bottom within a group of elements. The order of decreasing electronegativities F > Cl > Br > I is another sequence that we will use to interpret the chemical and physical properties of organic compounds.