Which pattern in electronegativity do elements in the periodic table display? (1 point)

Question

Electronegativity is highest on the left and right sides of the periodic table, and lowest in the
middle of a row.
Electronegativity is lowest on the left and right sides of the periodic table, and highest in the
middle of a row.
Electronegativity decreases from left to right within a row of the periodic table.
Electronegativity increases from left to right within a row of the periodic table.

Answer 1

The correct statement is: Electronegativity increases from left to right within a row of the periodic table.

This trend occurs because as you move across a period, the number of protons in the nucleus increases, which attracts the bonding electrons more strongly, resulting in higher electronegativity values. Additionally, electronegativity generally decreases as you move down a column in the periodic table due to the increasing distance between the nucleus and the outermost electrons, as well as increased electron shielding.