Chemistry

Question Analysis
This question evaluates the student's understanding of the periodic trend in electronegativity across a period.

Key Concept Explanation
Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a chemical bond. As you move from left to right across a period, the number of protons (nuclear charge) increases, while the number of electron shells remains the same. This results in a stronger attraction between the nucleus and the valence electrons, leading to higher electronegativity.

Step-by-step Solution
1. Identify the key factors affecting electronegativity: nuclear charge and atomic radius.
2. Understand that as you move from left to right across a period, the nuclear charge increases.
3. Recognize that the atomic radius decreases due to the increased nuclear charge pulling the electrons closer.
4. Conclude that the increased nuclear charge and decrea...