Question detail
What is the reason for the decrease in electronegativity of halogens down Group 7?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Group 7(17), the halogens
Question
What is the reason for the decrease in electronegativity of halogens down Group 7?
Answer
Electronegativity decreases down Group 7 due to the increasing atomic radius, which results in a weaker attraction between the nucleus and the bonding electrons.
Explanation
This answer effectively explains the trend in electronegativity by linking it to atomic structure. The question assesses the understanding of how atomic size affects electronegativity in halogens.
Common mistake
Oxidising Ability Confusion
Students often confuse the trend in oxidising ability of halogens with their reactivity, thinking that more reactive halogens are always stronger oxidising agents.
To clarify, remember that oxidising ability increases up the group, while reactivity increases down the group. For example, fluorine is the most reactive but not the strongest oxidising agent compared to chlorine. Focus on the definition of oxidising ability as the tendency to gain electrons.
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