Which term describes the degree to which an element attracts electrons in a chemical bond?

• A. Atomic radius
• B. Electronegativity
• C. Ionization energy
• D. Electron affinity

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is asking for a term that describes how strongly an element attracts electrons when it forms a chemical bond.
2. Recall the definitions of the given terms: Atomic radius refers to the size of an atom; Ionization energy is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom; Electron affinity is the energy change when an atom gains an electron.
3. Recognize that the term 'Electronegativity' specifically measures the tendency of an atom to attract electrons towards itself in a chemical bond.
4. Note that electronegativity is a dimensionless quantity and varies across the periodic table, generally increasing across a period and decreasing down a group.
5. Conclude that the correct term describing the degree to which an element attracts electrons in a chemical bond is 'Electronegativity'.