Question

Explain the trends in the following properties of group 17 elements : Electronegativity

Hint:

Electronegativity is inversely proportional to atomic size. Smaller atoms have higher electronegativity.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Electronegativity is the tendency of an atom to attract a shared pair of electrons towards itself in a covalent bond.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
As we move down Group 17:
1. The atomic size increases, which means the shared pair of electrons is further away from the nucleus.
2. The effective nuclear attraction on the shared pair decreases.
3. Consequently, the ability of the atom to attract electrons decreases.
Fluorine is the most electronegative element in the entire periodic table.
Order: \( F>Cl>Br>I \).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Electronegativity decreases down the group as the atomic size increases.