Which term describes the degree to which an element attracts electrons? which term describes the degree to which an element attracts electrons? electronegativity. polarity. oxidation. reduction?

Question

Sydnee Galloway

Chemistry

1 January, 00:00

Which term describes the degree to which an element attracts electrons? which term describes the degree to which an element attracts electrons? electronegativity. polarity. oxidation. reduction?

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May · Answer 1

Electronegativity.

Electronegativity can be defined as the measure of affinity of the element towards electrons. Higher the affinity towards electrons higher the electronegativity.

Eg : Fluorine has a high electronegativity. This is because it has 7 valence electrons, to gain a noble gas configuration / complete outer shell it needs to gain one electron. Hence the positive nuclear charge of the nucleus will attract an electron so it can become a complete outer shell, therefore F is very reactive.

Higher the attraction of the nucleus to electrons, higher its affinity therefore higher electronegativity.