Question

question 5. rank the following atoms in order of increasing electronegativity. potassium (k), fluorine (f), nitrogen (n), calcium (ca) answer: < < <

Explanation:

Step1: Recall electronegativity trends

Electronegativity generally increases across a period (from left to right) and decreases down a group (from top to bottom) in the periodic table.

• Potassium (K) is in Group 1, Period 4.
• Calcium (Ca) is in Group 2, Period 4.
• Nitrogen (N) is in Group 15, Period 2.
• Fluorine (F) is in Group 17, Period 2.

Step2: Compare metals (K, Ca)

Among K and Ca (both metals), K is in Group 1, Ca in Group 2. Electronegativity increases across a period, so K < Ca.

Step3: Compare non - metals (N, F)

Among N and F (both non - metals), they are in the same period (Period 2). Electronegativity increases across a period, so N < F.

Step4: Compare metals and non - metals

Metals (K, Ca) have lower electronegativity than non - metals (N, F) because non - metals have a greater tendency to attract electrons. So the order from lowest to highest electronegativity is K < Ca < N < F.

Answer:

Potassium (K) < Calcium (Ca) < Nitrogen (N) < Fluorine (F)