What is electronegativity and why is it important?

What is electronegativity and why is it important?

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons. It's crucial in determining how atoms bond in molecules.

Can you give me an example of how electronegativity affects bonding?

Sure! In a water molecule (H2O), oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, which creates a polar bond. This polarity affects the molecule's properties.

What scale is used to measure electronegativity?

The most commonly used scale is the Pauling scale, which assigns values to elements based on their electronegativity.

How does electronegativity influence the properties of compounds?

Electronegativity influences properties like polarity, solubility, and reactivity of compounds, affecting how they interact with other substances.

Are there any exceptions to electronegativity trends?

Yes, there are exceptions, such as the noble gases, which typically have very low electronegativity values due to their full valence shells.