Question

atoms like chlorine that tend to become anions are likely electronegative

Answer 1

Yes, that's correct! Atoms like chlorine, which tend to gain electrons and form anions (specifically, chloride ions, Cl⁻), are considered electronegative. Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. Chlorine is highly electronegative on the Pauling scale, with a value of about 3.16, which means it has a strong tendency to attract electrons from other atoms. This property makes chlorine likely to form bonds where it gains an electron, resulting in the formation of an anion. Other elements with similar tendencies include fluorine and oxygen, which are also highly electronegative and commonly form anions.