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Definition of "electronegativity" [electronegativity]

  • The tendency, or a measure of the ability, of an atom or molecule to attract electrons and thus form bonds (noun)

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Use "electronegativity" in a sentence
  • "The disparity in electronegativity values between the oxygen and the phosphorus (3.5 for O compared to 2.1 for P), along with the formal charges on 3 of the 4 oxygens, compounded with the oxygen atoms having electron lone pairs makes this molecule pretty reactive."
  • "HMAs are formed from alloys that are highly mismatched in terms of electronegativity, which is a measurement of their ability to attract electrons."
  • "Going along a row from left to right, the reactivity increases, and properties such as electronegativity increase as well."