Which of the following statements about electronegativity is false?

• A. Electronegativity generally decreases down a group in the periodic table.
• B. Fluorine is the most electronegative element.
• C. Electronegativity generally increases across a period from left to right.
• D. Electronegativity values are highest for alkali metals.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of electronegativity: it is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond.
2. Recall the general trends of electronegativity in the periodic table: it increases across a period from left to right and decreases down a group.
3. Recognize that fluorine is the most electronegative element, which is a well-established fact in chemistry.
4. Analyze the statement about alkali metals having the highest electronegativity values: since alkali metals are located on the far left of the periodic table and have low electronegativity, this statement contradicts the known trend.
5. Conclude that the false statement is the one claiming that electronegativity values are highest for alkali metals, as this goes against the periodic trend.