Does sodium (Na) or chlorine (Cl) have a higher electronegativity? Briefly explain why.
Understand the Problem
This question is asking about the concept of electronegativity in chemistry. Specifically, it asks to compare the electronegativity of sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) and provide a brief explanation for the difference. Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract shared electrons in a chemical bond. We need to determine which of these elements has a greater tendency to attract electrons.
Answer
Chlorine has a higher electronegativity than sodium because chlorine readily attracts electrons more strongly than sodium.
Chlorine (Cl) has a higher electronegativity than Sodium (Na). Chlorine is a non-metal and readily gains electrons, while sodium is a metal and readily loses electrons.
Answer for screen readers
Chlorine (Cl) has a higher electronegativity than Sodium (Na). Chlorine is a non-metal and readily gains electrons, while sodium is a metal and readily loses electrons.
More Information
Electronegativity generally increases across the periodic table from left to right and decreases down a group.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing electronegativity with electron affinity or ionization energy, although they are related. Electronegativity specifically refers to the ability of an atom in a chemical bond to attract shared electrons.
Sources
- Why is chlorine more electronegative than sodium? - Quora - quora.com
- 6.1: Electronegativity and Polarity - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- A. Explain, in detail, why Sodium (Na) and Chlorine (Cl) atoms ... - homework.study.com
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