Trends in electronegativity are primarily a result of ________

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Electronegativity is primarily influenced by the effective nuclear charge an outer electron experiences - this relates to the attraction the outer electron feels towards the positively charged nucleus of the atom. Elements with higher effective nuclear charge tend to have higher electronegativities. Factors such as atomic number and number of valence electrons can also have an effect, but are secondary to effective nuclear charge. Core electrons and atomic mass are not significant factors in determining electronegativity trends.

Trends in Electronegativity Are Primarily a Result of ________