Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract electrons within a chemical bond. It influences bond type, molecular polarity, and chemical reactivity.
Key Points:
- Measures an atom’s electron-attracting power
- Determines bond polarity and bond type
- Affects molecular structure and reactivity
- Varies systematically across the periodic table
Additional Insights:
- High electronegativity elements form polar covalent or ionic bonds
- Plays a key role in predicting chemical behaviour
- Helps explain acidity, basicity, and intermolecular forces
- Important in organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry