Which element has the lowest electronegativity?
A. Ca
B. Mg
C. Be
D. [tex]Sr^{-}$[/tex]
Answer (1)
Electronegativity decreases down a group in the periodic table.
Locate the elements Be, Mg, Ca, and Sr in Group 2.
Determine their order from top to bottom: Be, Mg, Ca, Sr.
Conclude that Sr has the lowest electronegativity: S r
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are asked to identify the element with the lowest electronegativity from the given options: Ca, Mg, Be, and Sr, based on their position in the periodic table. Electronegativity generally decreases down a group and increases across a period in the periodic table.
Locating Elements in the Periodic Table Let's locate the elements Ca, Mg, Be, and Sr in the periodic table provided. We can see that all these elements belong to Group 2 (alkaline earth metals).
Comparing Positions in Group 2 Electronegativity decreases as we move down a group in the periodic table. Therefore, we need to compare the positions of Mg, Ca, Be, and Sr in Group 2. The order of these elements from top to bottom is: Be, Mg, Ca, Sr.
Determining the Element with Lowest Electronegativity Since Sr is the lowest among the given elements in Group 2, it has the lowest electronegativity.
Final Answer Therefore, the element with the lowest electronegativity among the given options is Sr.
Examples
Understanding electronegativity helps predict the nature of chemical bonds between atoms. For example, in designing solar cells, materials with specific electronegativity differences are chosen to optimize electron flow and energy conversion efficiency. Similarly, in pharmaceuticals, electronegativity plays a crucial role in determining how a drug molecule interacts with biological targets, influencing its effectiveness and safety. By understanding electronegativity trends, scientists can better design and develop new materials and drugs with desired properties.
