Question

Define electronegativity. How does it differ from electron gain enthalpy?

Answer 1

Electronegativity is the ability of an atom in a chemical compound to attract a bond pair of electrons towards itself.

Electronegativity of any given element is not constant. It varies according to the element to which it is bound. It is not a measurable quantity. It is only a relative number.

On the other hand, electron gain enthalpy is the enthalpy change that takes place when an electron is added to a neutral gaseous atom to form an anion. It can be negative or positive depending upon whether the electron is added or removed. An element has a constant value of the electron gain enthalpy that can be measured experimentally.