what is electronegativity and explain the trend in electronegativity as we go down the group?

Electronegativity is the power of an atom to attract electrons in a covalent bond towards itself. As we go down the group, electronegativity decreases because the atomic radii increases. The atomic radii increases because the number of electron shells increases. The nucleus is further away from the bonding pair of electrons and therefore it is less able to attract it.

Answered by Chemistry tutor

5262 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Define the "standard enthalpy change of atomisation".


How do you know where the bonds link to form a new molecule?


What is the oxidation state of chlorine (Cl) in HClO?


What product would you expect to obtain when reacting ethanal (or acetaldehyde) with potassium cyanide (KCN) in dilute acid? Draw a curly arrow mechanism for this transformation, and determine whether you obtain one enantiomer or a racemic mixture.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning