The electronegativity of elements on the periodic table increases going ________ a column and to the ________ in each row.
A) up; right
B) up; left
C) down; right
D) down; left

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Electronegativity generally increases as you move from left to right across a period due to the increasing attraction between the valence electrons and the nucleus, which pulls electrons closer to the atom. Electronegativity also generally increases as you move up a group/column of the periodic table because the valence electrons are held closer to the nucleus due to the smaller radius of the atom.

The Electronegativity of Elements on the Periodic Table Increases Going