Question

which of the following statements best describes electronegativity in atoms? answer: a electronegativity is what happens when an atom gains an electron to become an anion. b electronegativity is the attraction an elements nucleus has for the electrons in a chemical bond. c electronegativity is the energy lost when an atom gains an electron. d electronegativity is the energy absorbed when an atom loses an electron.

Explanation:

Electronegativity is a measure of the tendency of an atom to attract a bonding pair of electrons. Option A describes electron - gain (formation of anion) which is related to electron - affinity (energy change when an atom gains an electron). Option C is about electron - affinity (energy change when an atom gains an electron). Option D is about ionization energy (energy required to remove an electron). Option B correctly states that electronegativity is the attraction an element's nucleus has for the electrons in a chemical bond.

Answer:

B. electronegativity is the attraction an element's nucleus has for the electrons in a chemical bond.