Electronegativity of main-group elements generally
A)increases from left to right across a period and increases down a group.
B)increases from left to right across a period and decreases down a group.
C)decreases from left to right across a period and increases down a group.
D)decreases from left to right across a period and decreases down a group.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electronegativity of main-group elements generally increases from left to right across a period due to the increasing nuclear charge, which attracts electrons more strongly. It also decreases down a group because the atomic radius increases and there is less attraction between the nucleus and the valence electrons. Therefore, option B is the correct answer as it correctly describes both trends.

Electronegativity of Main-Group Elements Generally