Electronegativity

Electronegativity is the measure of the ability of an atom or molecule to attract electrons in the context of a chemical bond. The type of bond formed is largely determined by the difference in electronegativity between the atoms involved. Atoms with similar electronegativities will constantly 'steal' an electron from each other (often misleadingly referred to as 'sharing') and form a covalent bond. However, if the difference is too great, the electron will be permanently transferred to one atom and an ionic bond will form. Furthermore, if one atom pulls slightly harder than the other, a polar covalent bond will form.

Related Topics:
Covalent bond - Polar covalent bond

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Two scales of electronegativity are in common use: the Pauling scale (proposed in 1932) and the Mulliken scale (proposed in 1934). Another proposal is the Allred-Rochow scale.

Related Topics:
1932 - Mulliken scale - 1934 - Allred-Rochow scale

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