Question

Which of the following has the greatest electronegativity?

• A. Fluorine
• B. Oxygen
• C. Nitrogen
• D. Chlorine

Hint:

Fluorine is the most electronegative element. The electronegativity decreases as you move down a group in the periodic table.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand electronegativity trends
In the periodic table:
- Electronegativity increases across a period (left to right) due to increasing nuclear charge.
- Electronegativity decreases down a group due to increased atomic size and shielding.

Step 2: Locate elements in the periodic table
- Fluorine (F): Group 17, Period 2
- Oxygen (O): Group 16, Period 2
- Nitrogen (N): Group 15, Period 2
- Chlorine (Cl): Group 17, Period 3
All are in the upper-right corner, where electronegativity is highest.

Step 3: Compare electronegativity values
Using the Pauling scale (approximate values):
- Fluorine: 3.98
- Oxygen: 3.44
- Nitrogen: 3.04
- Chlorine: 3.16
Fluorine has the highest value.

Step 4: Analyze trends
- Across Period 2 (N, O, F): Electronegativity increases, so F>O>N.
- Down Group 17 (F, Cl): Electronegativity decreases, so F>Cl.
Thus, Fluorine is the most electronegative.

Step 5: Conclusion
Fluorine has the greatest electronegativity, matching option (1)