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

Chemistry

Kaylah Bishop

12 March, 08:32

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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Geovanni Owens · 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.