Question

Use the periodic table to select the element from the drop-down menu that has the correct relative electronegativity.

Mg >
P >
C <
Br <

Answer 1

Here are correct choices (using Pauling electronegativities) and why:

- Mg > Na — Mg (1.31) is more electronegative than Na (0.93). Electronegativity increases left → right.
- P > Si — P (2.19) is more electronegative than Si (1.90). Same-period increase left → right.
- C < O — C (2.55) is less electronegative than O (3.44).
- Br < Cl — Br (2.96) is less electronegative than Cl (3.16) (electronegativity increases up a group).