Question

Which of the following elements has the most electronegativity: Li, Na, K, or Rb?

• A. Li
• B. Na
• C. K
• D. Rb

Hint:

Electronegativity decreases as you go down a group in the periodic table because the atomic radius increases, reducing the nucleus's ability to attract electrons.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Electronegativity measures an atom's tendency to draw electrons in a chemical bond. This property generally declines down a periodic table group and ascends across a period from left to right.
Step 1: Electronegativity Trend in the Periodic Table - Lithium (Li) is in Group 1 and Period 2. Elements in Period 2 exhibit higher electronegativity than those in later periods. - Sodium (Na) is in Group 1 and Period 3; its electronegativity is less than lithium's. - Potassium (K) is in Group 1 and Period 4, possessing an even lower electronegativity than sodium. - Rubidium (Rb) is in Group 1 and Period 5, demonstrating the lowest electronegativity among the listed elements.
Step 2: Conclusion Electronegativity diminishes as one progresses down the alkali metal group. Consequently, Li (Lithium) exhibits the highest electronegativity among the specified elements. Thus, the correct answer is \( \boxed{\text{Li}} \).