As you move from left to right across a period (row) on the periodic table, how does electronegativity generally change?

• A. Electronegativity decreases.
• B. Electronegativity increases.
• C. Electronegativity remains constant.
• D. Electronegativity first increases, then decreases.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond.
2. Recall the periodic trend that as you move from left to right across a period in the periodic table, the number of protons in the nucleus increases, which increases the effective nuclear charge experienced by the valence electrons.
3. Recognize that the increased effective nuclear charge pulls the valence electrons closer to the nucleus, making the atom more electronegative.
4. Note that the atomic radius generally decreases across a period, which also contributes to the stronger attraction for bonding electrons.
5. Conclude that due to these factors, electronegativity generally increases as you move from left to right across a period on the periodic table.