Question

Arrange F, Cl, O, N in the decreasing order of electronegativity

• A. O > F > N > Cl
• B. F > N > Cl > O
• C. Cl > F > N > O
• D. F > O > N > Cl

Answer 1

The correct option is D

F > O > N > Cl

Lets write electronic configuration of concerned elements.

F $\to$ 1$s^2$2$s^2$2$p^5$ ($2^{nd}$period)

O $\to$ 1$s^2$2$s^2$2$p^4$ ($2^{nd}$ period)

N $\to$ 1$s^2$2$s^2$2$p^3$ ($2^{nd}$ period)

Cl $\to$ 1$s^2$2$s^2$2$p^6$3$s^2$3$p^5$ ($3^{rd}$ period)

Now, we know that

Electronegativity $\alpha$ $\frac{1}{AtomicRadius}$

Atomic Radius: As the atomic radius of the element increases the electronegativity value decreases.

Electronegativity $\alpha$ $\frac{1}{AtomicRadius}$

because

Effective Nuclear Charge: The electronegativity value increases as the effective nuclear charge on the atomic nucleus increases. Electronegativity ∝Effective nuclear charge ($Z_{eff}$)

We know from our previous subtopics knowledge that

Cl > N > O > F (Atomic Radius)

Therefore,

F > O > N > Cl (Electronegativity)