Electronegativity Flashcards
1
Q
Definition of electronegativity?
A
The relative ability of an atom to attract a pair of electrons in a covalent bond
2
Q
A
3
Q
When does electronegativity increase?
A
Along a period and down a group
4
Q
What is a non-polar bond?
A
The bonded electron pair is shared equally
This occurs when: elements form molecules and atoms have similar electronegativity
5
Q
Why is the bond polar?
A
One atom is more electronegative than the other
The electron cloud is distributed unevenly
6
Q
Why is the molecule polar?
A
The molecule is asymmetrical- the dipoles dont cancel
7
Q
Why can polar solvents e.g. water dissolve ionic compounds?
A
Because the solvent can interact with the ions
